THE ARCHITECTS

LAWS

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING & Professional Regulation Commission

PLANNING LAWS
Board of Architecture
PD1096
PD957 Resolutions
BP344
BP220 ARCH. ROMEO S. CAMACHO, UAP/AIA-IA
The Professional Regulation Commission was previously
called the
Office of the Board of Examiners,
which was created by Republic Act No. 546 on June 17,
1950, under the aegis of the Civil Service Commission.
It was first created as a national government agency by
Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 223
dated June 22, 1973, signed by then President Ferdinand
E. Marcos, mandated to enforce the laws regulating the
various professions

The PRC became operational on January 4, 1974. The

office was attached to the Office of the President for
general direction and coordination.
On December 9, 1974, the
Implementing Rules and Regulations
of P.D. No. 223 were promulgated, paving the way for
standardization of rules and procedures for the thirty-
three (33) professions then under the CSC.
On December 5, 2000, President Joseph Ejercito Estrada
signed
 Republic Act No. 8981
otherwise known as the
PRC Modernization Act of 2000.
The Implementing Rules and Regulations were
adopted on February 15, 2001 through PRC
Resolution No. 1 series of 2001.

With the passing of RA 8981, the Commission exercises

three functions:
1) executive functions;
2) quasi-legislative functions; and
3) quasi-judicial functions.

It had also set its new thrusts and priorities such as

customer-focused service, modernization through full
computerization and re-structuring, integrity of licensure
examinations, good governance, protection and
promotion of Filipino professionals and support to
national development priorities. With the passing of RA
8981, the Commission exercises three functions:
1) executive functions;
2) quasi-legislative functions; and
3) quasi-judicial functions.
In fulfillment of its legal mandate, the PRC
performs two important functions, which are:1) to
conduct and administer licensure examinations to
aspiring professionals, and2) to regulate and
supervise the practice of the professions exercised
in partnership with the forty-three (43) Professional
Regulatory Boards (PRBs)in the fields of health,
business, education, social sciences, engineering
and technology.

On September 11, 2006, as supplemented by

Executive Order No.565-A, PRC was attached to the
Department of Labor and Employment(DOLE)
for administrative supervision and control. Being
an attached agency of the DOLE, the PRC works
closely to the mandate of its mother agency.
 Board of Architecture
GENERAL PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE

The practice of architecture is hereby defined to

be: The act of
planning, specifying, architectural and structural
designing, supervising, and giving general
administration and responsible direction to the
•erection, enlargement or alterations
of buildings and architectural design of
engineering structures or any part thereof, of all
the processes which enter into the production of a
complete building or structure
performed through the medium of unbiased
preliminary studies of
plans, consultations, specifications, conferences,
evaluations, investigations, contract documents
and oral advice and directions the scientific,
aesthetic and orderly coordination
 ARCHITECTURE LICENSURE EXAM
REQUIREMENTS (2023 UPDATED)

In order to take the Architecture Licensure Exam

(ALE) in the Philippines in 2023, applicants must
meet certain requirements. These include a valid
Filipino college diploma, a valid transcript of
records, a valid birth certificate from the Philippine
Statistics Authority, and a valid marriage contract.
Applicants must also have experience in the field
of architecture and must have fulfilled the required
number of hours of practice, which is currently set
at 1,500 hours. In addition, applicants must pass
the written and oral examinations administered by
the Professional Regulation Commission.

These are the following requirements for those

who are planning to take the ALE:

 BS ARCHITECTURE
 NSO / PSA Birth Certificate
 NSO / PSA Marriage Contract (for married
female applicants)
 Transcript of Records with scanned picture
and remarks “For Board Examination
Purposes” (first-timers and repeaters)
 College Diploma (first timers)
 Professional Tax Receipt, IAPOA# of
architect Mentor (first timers)
 Valid NBI Clearance (first-timers and
repeaters)
 Payment of 900 pesos.
 BS Architecture (Post Graduation with two
(2) years of diversified training and
experience)
 Logbook of Diversified experience
 Affidavit of Experience signed and sealed by
a registered Architect with updated ID
 Master’s degree in architecture – one (1)
year practical experience
 Affidavit of Experience signed and sealed by
a registered Architect with updated ID
 Payment of 900 pesos.
 The deadline for filing applications for the
2023 Architecture Licensure Exam (ALE) in
the Philippines is Monday, February 6, 2023.
 Applicants may apply online through
Licensure Examination & Registration
Information System.
 You can check GUIDE: PRC Online
Application for Board Examination 2019
(Updated). Applicants must send their
payments through online ( Pay Maya, G
Cash, Landbank).
 PRC offices are open for appointments
under the current General Community
Quarantine last May 18 and currently
following a strict health implementation.

 As for what to expect during test day itself,

it will last for two days and will cover the
following topics:

 History and Theory of Architecture

 Principles of Architectural Planning
  Structural Conceptualization
 Utilities Systems
 Building Materials
 Architectural Design and Planning

Exam takers must also have the following items

with them:

 Calculator with Trigonometric Function,

Logarithm
 A printed copy of Rules VII and VIII of the
2004 Revised IRR of Presidential Decree
(PD) No. 1096 / 1977 National Building Code
of the Philippines (Click Here)
 Architect Scales (English & Metric Scales)
 30 x 60 and 45-Degree Triangles
 Protractors
 Pencils and Related Sketching Material
 ARCHITECTURE LICENSURE EXAM
REQUIREMENTS (2023 UPDATED)

In order to take the Architecture Licensure Exam

(ALE) in the Philippines in 2023, applicants must
meet certain requirements. These include a valid
Filipino college diploma, a valid transcript of
records, a valid birth certificate from the Philippine
Statistics Authority, and a valid marriage contract.
Applicants must also have experience in the field
of architecture and must have fulfilled the required
number of hours of practice, which is currently set
at 1,500 hours. In addition, applicants must pass
the written and oral examinations administered by
the Professional Regulation Commission.

These are the following requirements for those

who are planning to take the ALE:

BS ARCHITECTURE

o NSO / PSA Birth Certificate

o NSO / PSA Marriage Contract (for married female

 Republic of the Philippines Professional Regulation
Commission
THE ARCHITECTS Manila
LAWS
Board of Architecture
RA 9266
RA8981 Resolution No. 03,
PRC-BOA Series of 2004
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293
ACCREDITATION OF THE
THE BUILDING & UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC. (UAP)
ASTHE
PLANNING LAWS
INTEGRATED AND ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL
ORGANIZATION OFARCHITECTS (IAPOA)
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Whereas, Section 40, Article V of Republic Act No.
9266, known as the “The Architecture Act of 2004”,
states, to wit:

“Section 40. Integration of the Architecture

THE ARCHITECTS Profession. – The Architecture profession shall be
LAWS integrated into one (1) national organization which
shall be accredited by the Board, subject to the
approval by the Commission, as the integrated and
RA 9266
accredited professional organization of architect:
RA8981
Provided, however , That such an organization shall
PRC-BOA be registered with the Securities and Exchange
Resolutions Commission, as a non-profit, non-stock corporation to
Civil Code be governed by By-laws providing for a democratic
RA8293 election of its officials. An architect duly registered
with the Board, shall automatically become a member
THE BUILDING & of the integrated and accredited professional
PLANNING LAWS organization of architects and shall receive the
benefits and privileges provided for in this Act upon
PD1096 payment of the required fees and dues. Membership
PD957 in the integrated and accredited professional
BP344 organization of architects shall not be a bar to
BP220 membership in other associations of architects”.
 Whereas, on 19 May 2004, the United Architects of
the Philippines, Inc. (UAP) submitted its
Petition for Accreditation as the Integrated and Accre
THE ARCHITECTS dited Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA)
LAWS with the Board;

RA 9266 Whereas, an evaluation of the corporate papers of the

RA8981 UAP shows that it is a non-stock, non-profit
PRC-BOA corporation governed by By-laws providing for a
Resolutions democratic election of its officials
Civil Code
RA8293 Whereas, the hereunder considerations, standards,
and factors are being invoked by UAP insupport of
THE BUILDING & the Petition thereof:
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 1. The UAP is the largest organization of architects in
the Philippines with membership of more than
12,700 architects comprising more than 75% of all
registered and licensed architects in the country;

THE ARCHITECTS 2. The UAP is a member of international and regional

LAWS organizations of architects such as Union
Internationale des Architectes (UIA), Architects
Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA),and Eastern
RA 9266
Regional Organization for Planning and Housing
RA8981 (EAROPH);
PRC-BOA
Resolutions 3. The UAP was adjudged the Most Outstanding
Civil Code Professional Organization in 2002 by the
RA8293 Professional Regulation Commission;

THE BUILDING & 4. The petition for accreditation of UAP as the IAPOA
PLANNING LAWS is duly supported by three (3) other organizations
of architects, namely: The Philippine Institute of
PD1096 Architects (PIA), the Architecture Advocacy
PD957 International Foundation, Inc. (AAIF), and the
BP344 Council of the Consulting Architects and Planners
BP220 of the Philippines (CCAPP)
 Whereas, the foregoing clearly indicates that the
integration of the Architecture profession as
mandated by Republic Act No. 9266 will be better
served by the accreditation of the UAP as the
Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization
THE ARCHITECTS of Architects (IAPOA); and
LAWS Whereas, UAP’s documents and papers in support of
the Petition thereof are in order, since they are in
RA 9266 accordance with the PRC Res. No. 2004-178, Series of
RA8981 2004 and other pertinent issuances or policies.
PRC-BOA
Now, Therefore, by virtue of Rule 2 of Res. No. 2004-
Resolutions
178, series of 2004, the Board hereby resolved as it is
Civil Code now resolves to grant, subject to approval by the
RA8293 Commission, the United Architects of the
Philippines, Inc’s., (UAP) Petition for Accreditation
THE BUILDING & as the Integrated and Accredited Professional
PLANNING LAWS Organization of Architects (IAPOA), and, accordingly,
to issue thereto the Certificate of Accreditation
PD1096 signed by the Chairman and Members of the Board
PD957 and the Chairperson of the Commission with this
BP344 No. ___ dated _____ upon payment of the prescribed
BP220 fee therefore.
 Further resolved, as the IAPOA, the UAP is enjoined:

1. To encourage registered and licensed architects

who are not yet members of the UAP to join the
said organization and be integrated into this
THE ARCHITECTS IAPOA.
LAWS
2. To insure the accomplishment of the purposes,
duties, and responsibilities prescribed in R.A. No.
RA 9266
8981 and R.A. No. 9266 and their IRRs and the
RA8981
Constitution and By-laws of the UAP.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions 3. To keep and make up-to-date its roster/roll of
Civil Code members.
RA8293 4. To charge and collect reasonable fees from its
members and to provide them the benefits and
THE BUILDING & privileges they are entitled to, pursuant to the
PLANNING LAWS Constitution and By-laws of the UAP.
5. To motivate the members to undergo the
PD1096 Continuing Professional Education (CPE)Programs.
PD957
BP344 6. To comply with the relevant Rules in Res. No. 2004-
BP220 178, Series of 2004.
 Republic of the Philippines
Professional Regulation Commission
Manila
THE ARCHITECTS BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE
LAWS
Resolution No. 02
RA 9266 Series of 2005
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions RESOLUTION REQUIRING REGISTERED AND LICENSE
Civil Code D ARCHITECTS TO SUBMITTHEIR VALID CERTIFICATES
RA8293 OF UAP MEMBERSHIP AND OFFICIAL PAYMENT
RECEIPTS FOR ANNUAL/LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP DUES
THE BUILDING & AS A PREREQUISITE FORISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATES
PLANNING LAWS OF REGISTRATION AND PROFESSIONAL
IDENTIFICATION CARDS AS ARCHITECT OR FOR
PD1096 RENEWAL OF THE FOREGOING CARDS
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Whereas, the foregoing clearly indicates that the
integration of the Architecture profession as mandated by
Republic Act No. 9266 will be better served by the
accreditation of the UAP as the Integrated and Accredited
Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA); and
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS Whereas, UAP’s documents and papers in support of the
Petition thereof are in order, since they are in accordance
RA 9266 with the PRC Res. No. 2004-178, Series of 2004 and other
RA8981 pertinent issuances or policies.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions Now, Therefore, by virtue of Rule 2 of Res. No. 2004-178,
series of 2004, the Board hereby resolved as it is now
Civil Code
resolves to grant, subject to approval by the Commission,
RA8293
the United
Architects of the Philippines, Inc’s., (UAP) Petition
THE BUILDING & for Accreditation as the Integrated and Accredited
PLANNING LAWS Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA), and,
accordingly, to issue thereto
PD1096 the Certificate of Accreditation signed by the Chairman
PD957 and Members of the Board and the Chairperson of the
BP344 Commission with this No. ___ dated _____ upon payment
BP220 of the prescribed fee therefore.
 WHEREAS, Sec. 40. (Integration of the Architecture
Profession), Art. V of R.A. No. 9266, “The
Architecture Act of 2004”, states, inter alia , to wit:

1)the integration of the said profession into one (1)

THE ARCHITECTS national organization which shall be accredited by
LAWS the Board of Architecture, subject to the approval
of the Professional Regulation Commission, as the
integrated and accredited professional organization
RA 9266
of architects (IAPOA);
RA8981
PRC-BOA 2)the automatic membership by a registered and
Resolutions licensed architect to the said
Civil Code accredited organization;
RA8293
3)the receipt of his/her benefits and privileges; and
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 4)his/her payment of the required membership fees
and dues
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Republic of the Philippines Professional Regulation Commission
Manila
BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE
MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 2005-08
THE ARCHITECTS Series of 2005
LAWS TOTHESE DEPARTMENTS:

RA 9266 JUSTICE, FOREIGN AFFAIRS, HEALTH,INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOV

ERNMENT, PUBLIC WORKS ANDHIGHWAYS, BUDGET AND
RA8981
MANAGEMENT, TRADE AND INDUSTRY,LABOR AND
PRC-BOA
EMPLOYMENT; THESE COMMISSIONS: CIVIL SERVICE,
Resolutions SECURITY AND EXCHANGE; THESE BOARDS: PHILIPPINECONTRA
Civil Code CTORS ACCREDITATION, PHILIPPINE DOMESTICCONSTRUCTION,
RA8293 CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ARBITRATION;NATIONAL BUREAU OF I
NVESTIGATION, PHILIPPINE NATIONALPOLICE.
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS SUBJECT:
ENFORCEMENT OF THE PROVISIONS OF R.A. NO. 9266, ‘THE
PD1096
ARCHITECTURE ACT OF 2004”; BOARD RESOLUTION NO. 07,
PD957 SERIES OF 2004, THE “IRR OF THE ARCHITECTURE ACT OF 2004”;
BP344 R.A. NO. 8981, THE “PRC MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2004”; PRC
BP220 RESOLUTION NO. 01, SERIES OF 2001, THE IRR OF R.A. NO. 8981.
 The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board
of Architecture (BOA),for the effective enforcement of the
provisions of R.A. No. 9266, Board Res. No. 07, Series of 2004,
R.A. No. 8981, and PRC Res. No. 01, Series of 2001; and the
prosecution of the violators thereof do hereby seek, request, or
THE ARCHITECTS call the assistance of the above-mentioned constituted
LAWS agencies, including officers of national, provincial, city or
municipal government of any political subdivision thereof,
pursuant to Sec. 44, Art. V of R.A. No. 9266 and Sec.. 44, Rule V
RA 9266
of Board Res. No. 07, Series of 2004.
RA8981
PRC-BOA The Secretary of Justice, or his duly designated representative,
Resolutions shall act as legal adviser to the PRC and the BOA; and shall
Civil Code render legal assistance as may be necessary in carrying out the
RA8293 afore-said laws and their respective IRRs.

THE BUILDING & The Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) entered into , by, and
PLANNING LAWS between the PRC and some of the afore-stated agencies and the
other MOAs that the other agencies may subsequently enter
PD1096 into with the PRC shall aid the concerned agencies in enforcing,
PD957 implementing, and carrying out the provisions of above-stated
BP344 laws and IRRs.
BP220
 Republic of the Philippines Professional Regulation
Commission
THE ARCHITECTS Manila
LAWS
BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE
RA 9266
RA8981 Resolution No. 04
PRC-BOA Series of 2005
Resolutions
Civil Code
ADOPTION OF THE LOGBOOK OF DIVERSIFIED
RA8293 ARCHITECTURAL EXPERIENCE, ADOCUMENT
FORMULATED BY THE UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE
THE BUILDING & PHILIPPINES, INC.(UAP), THE INTEGRATED AND
PLANNING LAWS ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION OF
ARCHITECTS (IAPOA)
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 WHEREAS, SEC. 13 (c), Article III of RA 9266, requires
that candidate for licensure examination in
architecture must have a specific record of at least (2)
years or equivalent of diversified architectural
experience duly certified by a registered/licensed
THE ARCHITECTS architect.
LAWS
WHEREAS, the United Architects of the Philippines (U
AP), the integrated and accredited professional
RA 9266
organization of architects, submitted to the Board
RA8981 UAP Document No. 210 entitled “Logbook of
PRC-BOA Diversified Experience in Architecture” which the
Resolutions Board approved and adopted in Board Resolution No.
Civil Code 01, Series of 2000.
RA8293
WHEREAS, for the reason stated in Board Resolution
THE BUILDING & No. 5, Series of 1993, the requirement of diversified
PLANNING LAWS experience in licensure examination has not been
implemented and in the same Resolution the Board
PD1096 resolved “to require mandatory and unconditionally
PD957 the submission of the Logbook of Diversified
BP344 Experience in Architecture” beginning with the
BP220 second schedule of examination in 1995.
 WHEREAS, the Board of Architecture realizes that
UAP Document No.210, as approved and adopted,
needs revisions to reflect the detailed diversified
training in the different phases of the Practice of
Architecture conforming to RA 9266 and its
Implementing Rules and Regulations, total number of
THE ARCHITECTS hours rendered by a candidate for examination, the
LAWS period covered by the training, date when mentor
signed the logbook, his/her address, valid IAPOA
RA 9266 number, valid PTR No., UAP control number, check
RA8981 list of documents and other details for facility in
PRC-BOA processing of application for examination, easy
Resolutions notification and for administrative controls.
Civil Code
RA8293 WHEREOF, the Board resolved as it herby resolves to
request the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP),
THE BUILDING & which drafted the Logbook of Diversified Experience
PLANNING LAWS in Architecture under UAP Document No. 210, Series
of 2000, to revise the said document in accordance
PD1096 with above observations.
PD957
Let copy of this Resolution be furnished the President
BP344
of the UAP for the desired revision of UAP Document
BP220 No. 210.
 Republic of the Philippines Professional Regulation Commission
Manila

Board of Architecture
THE ARCHITECTS
Resolution No. 05
LAWS
Series of 2005
RA 9266
RA8981 PRESCRIPTION BY THE BOARD OF THE DESIGN, SIZE, AND
PRC-BOA CONTENTS OF THE DRYSEAL FOR USE BY A DULY LICENSED
Resolutions ARCHITECT
Civil Code
RA8293 Whereas, Sec. 20, Art III of R.A. No. 9266, known as “The Architecture
Act of 2004”, and Sec. 20 Rule 20 of Board Res. No. 07, series of
THE BUILDING & 2004, cited as the “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”, states, to wit:
PLANNING LAWS
“Section 20. Seal, Issuance and Use of Seal. – A duly licensed
architect shall affix the seal prescribed by the Board bearing the
PD1096
registrant name, registration number and title “Architect” on all
PD957
architectural plans, drawings, specifications and all other contract
BP344 documents prepared by or under his/her direct supervision”; and
BP220
 Whereas, the last Paragraph of Sec. 20 Rule III of supra IRR reads
as follows: “The Boards hall prescribe the design, size and
contents of the dry seal to be used in signing and sealing
of architectural plans, drawings, specifications, contract
documents and architectural permit prepared by or under his/her
THE ARCHITECTS direct supervision”;
LAWS Now, therefore, the Board resolves, as it is hereby Resolved, to
prescribe the dry seal with the design, size, and contents, as
RA 9266 presented in Annex “A” for mandatory use by a duly licensed
RA8981 architect in signing and sealing of architectural plans, drawings
PRC-BOA specifications, contract documents and architectural permit
Resolutions prepared by or under his/her direct supervision.
Civil Code The Office of the Secretary, Professional Regulatory Boards, PRC
RA8293 shall have the custody of the said dry seal.
This Resolution shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its
THE BUILDING &
complete and full publication in the Official Gazette or any
PLANNING LAWS newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.

PD1096 Let copy of this Resolution be furnished to the President, United

PD957 Architects of the Philippines(UAP), Inc. for distribution to affiliate
BP344 architectural organizations and concerned governmental agencies
BP220 for wide and extensive dissemination to all concerned.
 Republic of the Philippines Professional Regulation
Commission Manila

BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE

Resolution No. 02 Series of 2006

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS ADOPTION AND PROMULGATION OF THE CODE OF E
THICAL CONDUCT FORREGISTERED AND LICENSED
RA 9266 ARCHITECTS AND FOR HOLDERS OF TEMPORARY/S
PECIAL PERMITS UNDER R.A. NO. 9266, KNOWN AS
RA8981
“THE ARCHITECTURE ACT OF2004”
PRC-BOA
Resolutions Pursuant to section 7 (g). Article II of R.A. No. 9266,
Civil Code known as the “Architecture Act of 2004”,cited as IRR
RA8293 of the Architecture Act of 2004”, the Professional
Regulatory Board of Architecture (hereinafter- called
THE BUILDING & Commission), resolves, as it is hereby resolved, to
PLANNING LAWS adopt and promulgate the hereunder Code of Ethical
Conduct for Registered and Licensed Architects and
PD1096 for holders of temporary/special permits under the
PD957 said R.A. No.9266 and Board Res. No. 07 as
BP344 Prescribed and issued by the United Architects of the
BP220 Philippines, Inc. (UAP), the Integrated and
 Accredited Professional Organization of Architects
(IAPOA) in the Philippines by virtue of Board Res.
No.03, Series of 2004 as approved by the
Commission.

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Article I – GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1 – TRAITS OF ARCHITECTS

The profession of Architecture calls for men and

women of the highest, responsiveness ,business
THE ARCHITECTS acumen, sensibility, as well as artistic and technical
LAWS ability.

RA 9266 Section 2 – DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

RA8981
The Architect’s honesty of purpose must be beyond
PRC-BOA
reproach; he/she acts as professional adviser to his/
Resolutions her advice must be unprejudiced; he/she is charge with
Civil Code the exercise of meditation and conciliation functions
RA8293 between Client and Contractor and must act with entire
impartiality; he/she has moral responsibilities to
THE BUILDING & his/her professional associates and subordinates; and
PLANNING LAWS he/she is engaged in a profession which carries with it
grave responsibilities to the public. These duties and
PD1096 responsibilities cannot be properly discharged unless h
PD957 is/her motives, conduct, sense of moral values,
BP344 sensitivity, and ability are such as to command respect
BP220 and confidence.
 ARTICLE II - THE ARCHITECT'S RESPONSIBILITIES IN
RELATION TO THE PEOPLE

Section 3. Relations with the Public.

- The Architect is engaged in a profession which

THE ARCHITECTS carries with it civic responsibilities towards the public,
LAWS whether such responsibilities are the natural outcome
of good citizenship or of his/her professional pursuit,
RA 9266 or whether they partake of informative and educational
matters or of his/her normal interest in public welfare;
RA8981
and, accordingly, he or she
PRC-BOA
Resolutions 3.1 shall respect and help conserve the systems of
Civil Code values and the natural, historic, and cultural heritage
RA8293 of the community in which he/she creates architecture.
He/she shall strive to improve the environment and the
THE BUILDING & life and habitat within it in a sustainable manner, fully
PLANNING LAWS mindful of the effect of his/her work on the widest
interests of all those who may reasonably be expected
PD1096 to use the product of his/her work.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 participate in any forum, seminar, workshop, or similar
assemblies through verbal or visual presentations and,
in the process, show his/her own true worth as a
professional, in which case he/she may receive
remuneration or honorarium for such undertakings.

THE ARCHITECTS 3.5 shall not solicit, nor permit to solicit, in his/her
LAWS name, advertisements or other support towards the
cost of any publication presenting his/her work.
RA 9266 He/she shall refrain from taking part in paid
advertisement endorsing any materials of construction
RA8981
or building equipment.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions 3.6 shall not deceive the public as to his/her
Civil Code professional competence, nor claim any professional
RA8293 specialization unless supported by academic
qualification, track record or relevant expertise,
THE BUILDING & professional resources available to him/her which will
PLANNING LAWS enable him/her to handle the work particularly
requiring such specialization and sanction, by his/her
PD1096 peers in the profession.
PD957
BP344 3. 7 may exhibit his/her professional shingle outside
BP220 his/her office, or display a project billboard indicating
 relevant information, which may include pictorial
reproduction thereof, in a modest manner.

ARTICLE III - THE ARCHITECT'S RESPONSIBILITIES IN

RELATION TO HIS/HER CLIENT

THE ARCHITECTS Section 4. Relations with the Client. - The Architect's

LAWS relation to his/her Client is dependent upon good faith.
To ensure the continued existence of such state of
RA 9266 good relationship, the Architect's position carries with
it certain moral obligations to his/her Client and to
RA8981
himself/herself. The Architect shall always endeavor to
PRC-BOA
protect the Client's interests but never at the expense
Resolutions of higher public interests and public welfare; and,
Civil Code accordingly, he/she
RA8293
4.1 shall introduce to a prospective Client the
THE BUILDING & professional services he/she is able to perform
PLANNING LAWS provided it is limited to the presentation of
examples of his/her professional-experience and does
PD1096 not entail theoffering of free preliminary sketches or
PD957 other services without the benefit of an agreement with
BP344 the Client for legitimate compensation.
BP220
 4.2 shall acquaint or ascertain from the Client, at the
very inception of their business relationship, the exact
nature and scope of his/her services and properly
inform the Client of the corresponding professional
fees.

THE ARCHITECTS 4.3 shall advise a Client against proceeding with any
LAWS project whose practicability may be questionable due
to financial or legal important and/or exigent
RA 9266 conditions, even if such advice may mean the loss of
a prospective commission to the Architect.
RA8981
PRC-BOA
4.4 shall explain the conditional character of estimates
Resolutions and in no case shall he/she guarantee any estimates or
Civil Code cost of the work in order to secure a commission,
RA8293 unless provided for by law, as in certain government
projects.
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 4.5 shall consider the needs and stipulation of his/her
Client and the effects of his/her work upon the life and
PD1096 well-being of the public and the community as a whole
PD957 and shall endeavor to meet the aesthetic and
BP344 functional requirements of the project commensurate
BP220 with the Client's budget.
 4.6 shall bill his/her Client for services rendered a
professional fee commensurate with the work involved
and with his/her professional standing and experience
based upon the Basic Minimum Fee prescribed under
the. "Standards of Professional Practice.“
4.7 shall undertake the construction of a project even
THE ARCHITECTS when the plans were prepared bv him/her when it
LAWS conforms with pertinent sections of the "Standards of
Professional Practice".
RA 9266
4.8 shall be compensated for his/her services solely
RA8981
through his/her professional fee billed directly to the
PRC-BOA Client. He/she shall not ask for any other returns in
Resolutions whatever form from any interested source other than
Civil Code the Client.
RA8293
4.9 shall be free in his/her investments and business
THE BUILDING & relations outside of his/her profession from any
financial or personal interests which tend to weaker
PLANNING LAWS
his/her standing as an unprejudiced and honest
adviser, free to act in his/her Client's best interests. If
PD1096 the Architect has any other business interest's which
PD957 would relate to, or affect the interest of the Client,
BP344 he/she should inform the Client of such a condition or
BP220 situation.
 4.10 shall include in his/her agreement with the Client
a clause providing for negotiation,
mediation/conciliation and/or arbitration as alternative
methods for the settlement of disputes.
4.11 shall carry out his/her professional work without
undue delay and within an agreed reasonable time
THE ARCHITECTS limit.
LAWS
4.12 shall keep the Client informed at all times of the
progress of the work undertaken on the Client's behalf
RA 9266
and of any issue that may affect project quality and
RA8981
cost.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions ARTICLE IV
Civil Code THE ARCHITECT'S RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION
RA8293 TO THE CONTRACTOR

THE BUILDING & Section 5. Relations with Contractor.

PLANNING LAWS - The Contractor depends upon the
Architect to safeguard fairly the Contractor's interest
PD1096 as well as those of the Client; and, accordingly he or
PD957 she
BP344 5.1 shall give the Contractor every reasonable
BP220 assistance to enable him/her to fully understand the
 contents of the Contract Documents by furnishing
clear, definite, and consistent information in all
pertinent contract documents to avoid unnecessary
mistakes that may involve extra costs to either the
Contractor or the Client.

THE ARCHITECTS 5.2 shall not knowingly call upon the Contractor to
LAWS correct or remedy oversights or errors in the Contract
Document to the Contractor's or the Owner's financial
RA 9266 disadvantage.
RA8981
5.3 shall, immediately upon his/her personal
PRC-BOA
knowledge and inspection, reject or condemn material,
Resolutions equipment, or workmanship which is not in conformity
Civil Code with the Contract Documents in order not to cause
RA8293 unnecessary delay and additional expense to the
Contractor.
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 5.4 shall reject any offer of free professional
engineering or allied design service/s, or receive any
PD1096 substantial aid, gifts, commissions, or favors from any
PD957 Contractor or Subcontractor which will tend to place
BP344 him/her under any kind of obligation to return such
BP220 favors.
 5.5 shall promptly inspect each phase of the work
completed and if found according to the terms of the
Contract Documents, issue the corresponding
Certificates of Payment and the Final Certificate of
Completion, respectively, to the Contractor.

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS Article V - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN
RELATION TO MANUFACTURES,DEALERS, AND
RA 9266 AGENTS
RA8981
Section 6.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions - Relations with Manufacturers, Dealers, and Agents. –
Civil Code An exchange of technical information between the
RA8293 Architect and those who manufacture, supply, and
handle building materials or equipment is
THE BUILDING & necessary and, therefore, encouraged and
PLANNING LAWS commended, provided that:
he/she
PD1096
PD957 6.1 shall not solicit free professional engineering/allied
BP344 design or other technical services from manufacturers
BP220 or suppliers of building materials or equipment when
these are accompanied by an obligation detrimental to
 the best interest of the Client, or which may adversely
affect the Architect's professional opinion.

6.2 shall not seek commissions, discounts, fees, gifts,

or favors from agents or firms handling building
materials or equipment which may place him/her in a
THE ARCHITECTS reciprocal frame of mind. All market discounts shall be
LAWS credited to the Client.

RA 9266 Article VI - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN

REALATION TO HIS/HERCOLLEAGUES AND
RA8981
SUBORDINATES
PRC-BOA
Resolutions Section 1. Relations with his/her colleagues and
Civil Code subordinates (his/her big and small brothers/sisters). -
RA8293 The Architect has moral responsibilities towards
his/her profession, his/her colleagues, and his/her
THE BUILDING & subordinates; and, accordingly, he or she
PLANNING LAWS
7.1 shall not render professional services without a
PD1096 professional service agreement. He/she shall neither
PD957 offer nor provide preliminary services on a conditional
BP344 basis prior to definite agreement with the Client for the
BP220 commission of the project.
 7.2 shall abide by the Basic Minimum Feeprescribed
under the "Standards of Professional Practice".
He/she shall not use donation of professional
services as a device for obtaining competitive
advantage except for worthy civic or religious
THE ARCHITECTS projects. Neither shall he/she submit solicited or
LAWS unsolicited sketches or drawings in competition
with other Architects unless such competitive
RA 9266 arrangements are conducted substantially under
RA8981 the terms of me Architectural Competition Code.
PRC-BOA 7.3 shall not, in any case, enter as competitor in any
Resolutions Architectural Competition when he/she has direct
Civil Code involvement in the formulation of the Program
RA8293 thereof, or when he/she has been engaged to act as
Professional Adviser or Juror for such competition.
THE BUILDING & Neither shall the Architect accept and act as
PLANNING LAWS professional adviser or juror in any architectural
competition when he/she has had any information
PD1096 or has reviewed or assisted in the preparation of
PD957 such competition. Nor shall be retained as a
BP344 professional adviser in a competition, accept
BP220 employment as an Architect for the competition
project, except as Consulting Architect.
 7.4 shall not, under any circumstances or through
any means, solicit any project already known to
him/her as previously committed to another
Architect, whether such a commitment is
still in the process of negotiation or has already
THE ARCHITECTS been definitely agreed upon.
LAWS
7.5 shall not undertake a commission for which
RA 9266 he/she knows that another Architect has been
RA8981 previously employed unless he/she notifies me
PRC-BOA other Architect of the fact in writing and has
Resolutions conclusively determined that the original
Civil Code employment has been terminated and duly
RA8293 compensated for.

THE BUILDING & 7.6 shall not undertake a commission for additions,
PLANNING LAWS rehabilitation, or remodeling of any erected
structure undertaken previously by another
PD1096 Architect without duly notifying him of the
PD957 contemplated project even when the Client/Owner is
BP344 no longer the same. When the greater mass, area,
BP220 or design of the original structure is substantially
 maintained, the new Architect should limit his/her
advertisement or claim only to the
extent of the specific work he/she has done to me
structure. Whenever the nature of work involved
examples of our architectural heritage, the Architect
THE ARCHITECTS must look at all possibilities of restoration.
LAWS
7.7 shall not maliciously, or unfairly criticize, or
RA 9266 discredit another Architect or the latter's work.
RA8981
PRC-BOA 7.8 shall refrain from associating himself/herself
Resolutions with, or allowing the use of his/her name by any
Civil Code enterprise that may negatively affect himself/herself
RA8293 or the architectural profession.

THE BUILDING & 7.9 shall not affix his/her signature and seal to any
PLANNING LAWS plans or professional documents prepared by other
persons or entities and not done under his/her
PD1096 direct personal supervision.
PD957
BP344 7.10 shall provide employees and subordinates with
BP220 a suitable work environment, compensate them
 fairly, and facilitate their professional advancement.
He/she shall tutor and mentor the young aspirants
towards the ideals, functions, duties, and
responsibilities leading to the ethical practice of the
architectural profession.
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS 7.11 shall unselfishly give his/her share in the
transfer of technical knowledge and experience to
RA 9266 his/her colleagues and young aspirants and do
RA8981 his/her part in fostering unity in the furtherance of
PRC-BOA the profession.
Resolutions
Civil Code 7.12 shall unselfishly give his/her time and effort to
RA8293 the advancement of the profession thru his/her
active and personal commitment and involvement
THE BUILDING & with the Integrated and Accredited Professional
PLANNING LAWS Organization of Architects (IAPOA) and in
undertaking specific advocacy work to ultimately
PD1096 benefit the architectural profession.
PD957
BP344 7.13 shall ensure that the conduct of his/her
BP220 professional practice abides by appropriate and
 effective internal procedures, including monitoring
and review processes, as well as
sufficient qualified and supervised staff to enable
the firm to function efficiently.

THE ARCHITECTS 7.14 shall neither appropriate the intellectual

LAWS property of, nor unduly take advantage of the ideas
of another architect without express authority from
RA 9266 the originating architect.
RA8981
PRC-BOA 7.15 shall build his/her professional reputation on
Resolutions the merits of his/her own service and performance
Civil Code and shall strive to continuously update his/her
RA8293 professional know-how. He/she shall recognize and
give credit to others for professional work
THE BUILDING & performed.
PLANNING LAWS
7.16 shall not, when offering services as an
PD1096 independent consultant, quote a fee without first
PD957 receiving an official invitation for him/her to do so.
BP344 The Architect must have sufficient information on
BP220 the nature and scope of the project to enable
 him/her to prepare a fee proposal clearly indicating
the services covered by the fee in order to protect
the Client and the public from under-resourcing or
under-pricing by some unscrupulous parties.

THE ARCHITECTS 7.17 shall not undertake professional work unless

LAWS the parties shall have clearly agreed in writing to
the terms of the architectural commission, to wit:
RA 9266 7.16.1 scope of work,
RA8981 7.16.2 delineation of responsibilities,
PRC-BOA 7.16.3 any limitation of responsibilities,
Resolutions 7.16.4 fee or method of calculating it,
Civil Code 7.16.5 mode of alternative dispute resolution, and
RA8293 7.16.6 any provision for termination

THE BUILDING & 7.18 shall continue to raise the standards of

PLANNING LAWS aesthetic excellence, functional logic, architectural
education, research, training, and practice.
PD1096
PD957 7.19 shall, as appropriate, promote the allied arts
BP344 and contribute to the knowledge and capability of
BP220 the construction industry.
 7.20 if he/she possesses substantial information
which leads to a reasonable belief that another
Architect has committed a violation of this Code,
shall file a formal complaint with the designated
body.
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS 7.21 if he/she is leaving his/her Architect-Employer
shall not, without the permission of the latter, take
RA 9266 with him/her designs, drawings, data, or other
RA8981 relevant materials even if personally performed by
PRC-BOA him/her. On the other hand, the Architect-Employer
Resolutions shall not unreasonably withhold such permission,
Civil Code except when some confidentiality of any such
RA8293 documents must be reasonably protected.

THE BUILDING & 7.22 shall not discriminate on grounds of race,

PLANNING LAWS national origin, age, gender, marital status, religion,
or any disability which would hinder the
PD1096 performance of his/her professional work.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 ARTICLE VII
ARCHITECTS CREDO

Section 8. Any registered and licensed architect

THE ARCHITECTS shall recite with vigor, passion, and hope the
LAWS Architect's Credo during special or important
occasion, e.g., mass oath-taking, lAPOA's affair,
RA 9266 PRBOA's event. The Architect's Credo shall be the
RA8981 following:
PRC-BOA
Resolutions I shall work with this virtuous commitment: to
Civil Code exercise to the utmost my duty to myself, my
RA8293 country, and my God.

THE BUILDING & I shall uphold the ideals, follow the norms of
PLANNING LAWS conduct of a noble profession, and endlessly
endeavor to protect and further its just ends. I shall
PD1096 abide by the laws, rules, legal orders, statutory
PD957 policies, and measures of my country; the Code of
BP344 Ethical Conduct and the Standards of Professional
BP220 Practice; and the Articles of Incorporation and
 of the Integrated and Accredited Professional
Organization of Architects (IAPOA).

I shall humbly seek success not through the

measure of solicited personal publicity, but by
THE ARCHITECTS industrious, meaningful application to my work, and
LAWS strive to merit a reputation for quality of service and
for equitable dealing.
RA 9266
RA8981 I shall ask for fair remuneration for my professional
PRC-BOA services from my Client, and hold his/her interest
Resolutions over and above my own.
Civil Code
RA8293 I shall disclose, whenever required, any private
business investments or ventures that may tend to
THE BUILDING & create a conflict of interest, and ensure that such
PLANNING LAWS conflict does neither compromise the legitimate
interests of my Clients nor interfere with my duty to
PD1096 render impartial judgment.
PD957
BP344 I shall exercise my professional prerogatives
BP220 always with the highest level of integrity.
 I shall inspire by my behavior the loyalty of my
associates and subordinates, and take upon me the
mentorship of the aspirants to the profession.

I shall confine my criticisms and praises within

THE ARCHITECTS constructive and inspirational limits and never
LAWS resort to these means to promote any malicious
motives.
RA 9266
RA8981 I shall dedicate myself to the pursuit of creative
PRC-BOA endeavor towards the goal of enlightened Art and
Resolutions Science, generously sharing the results of my
Civil Code research, experience, and expertise.
RA8293
I shall treasure my being a holder of a valid
THE BUILDING & certificate of registration and a valid professional
PLANNING LAWS identification card as registered and licensed
architect and of a valid membership card with the
PD1096 lAPOA.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 I shall consecrate myself to the highest standard of
professionalism, integrity, and competence to the
public, to the Client, to the contractor, to the
manufacturers, dealers, and agents, and to
colleagues and subordinates who are the direct and
THE ARCHITECTS indirect users and beneficiaries of my architectural
LAWS services.

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code END OF TOPIC
RA8293 PRC-BOA
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 RA 386
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA AN ACT TO ORDAIN AND
Resolutions
Civil Code INSTITUTE THE CIVIL
RA8293 CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220 ARCH. ROMEO S. CAMACHO, UAP/AIA-IA
R.A. 386: CIVIL CODE
OF THE PHILIPPINES
R.A. 386: Civil Code of the Philippines

Topic Objectives

The topic will discuss the R.A. 386 or the Civil Code
of the Philippines

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386: AN ACT TO ORDAIN AND

INSTITUTE THE CIVIL CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

The civil code of the Philippines is the basic law

governing persons and family relations, property
and property rights, ownership of modifications,
the modes of acquiring ownership, and the
obligations and contracts
Samples of the articles in this Document that are
related to our practice, but not limited to:

ARTICLE 1713
By the contract for a piece of work the contractor
binds himself to execute a piece of work for the
employer, in consideration of a certain price or
compensation. The contractor may either employ
only his labor or skill or also furnish the material.
(1588a) (pertains to the contract that is agreed
upon by the architect/contractor and the proprietor)

ARTICLE 1714
If the contractor agrees to produce the work from
material furnished by him, he shall deliver the thing
produced to the employer and transfer dominion
over the thing. This contract shall be governed by
the following articles as well as by the pertinent
provisions on the warranty of title and against
hidden defects and the payment of the price in a
contract of sale. (n) (pertains to the quality of work
that is agreed upon by the architect/contractor and
the proprietor)
But the article that Architects need to be aware is
this Article 1723

ARTICLE 1723
The engineer or architect who drew up the plans
and specifications for a building is liable for
damages if, within fifteen years from the completion
of the structure, the same should collapse by
reason of a defect in those plans and specifications,
or due to the defects in the ground. The contractor
is likewise responsible for the damages if the
edifice falls, within the same period, on account of
defects in the construction or the use of materials
of inferior quality furnished by him, or due to any
violation of the terms of the contract. If the engineer
or architect supervises the construction, he shall be
solidarily liable to the contractor.

Acceptance of the building, after completion, does

not imply a waiver of any of the cause of action by
reason of any defect mentioned in the preceding
paragraph.
The action must be brought within ten years
following the collapse of the building. (n)

WHAT DOES THIS ARTICLE MEAN?

this article states that if a structure collapses due to
errors in the design of the plans and specifications
of the design, The architect / Engineer who
accounted for the design of the project, shall be
liable for those damages.
HOWEVER, if the damages were caused by defects
in the construction, the contractor is liable. If there
is an architect/engineer that supervises the
construction, the supervisor is also liable along
with the contractor.

SUMMARY:
R.A. 386 is the basic law governing persons and
family relations, property and property rights,
ownership of modifications, the modes of acquiring
ownership, and the obligations and contracts
Article 1723 is important when practicing our
profession, its states that Architects are liable
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS
PROFESSIONAL
RA 9266
PRACTICE I
RA8981
PRC-BOA LAWS AFFECTING THE
Resolutions
Civil Code PRACTICE OF
RA8293 ARCHITECTURE
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220 ARCH. ROMEO S. CAMACHO, UAP/AIA-IA
THE
ARCHITECTS
ARCHITECTS
LAWS
LAWS

RA 9266
RA 9266
RA8981
REPUBLIC ACT No. 9266
PRC-BOA
Resolutions The Architecture Act of 2004
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
RA 9266 & ITS IRR
 INTRO
THE ARCHITECTURE ACT OF 2004

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS
REPEALING CLAUSE
RA 9266 RA 9266 repeals RA 545, otherwise known as
RA8981 "An Act To Regulate The Practice Of
PRC-BOA ArchitectureIn The Philippines”
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING & FULL TITLE OF RA 9266

PLANNING LAWS
An act providing for a more responsive and
PD1096 comprehensive regulation for the
PD957 registration, licensing and practice of
BP344 architecture
BP220
 AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE

RA 545 OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE

RA 9266
RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE
REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION,
LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF
& ITS IRR
ARCHITECTURE
 RULE 1
General Provisions
SHORT TITLE
The Architecture Act of 2004
THE
ARCHITECTS
ARCHITECTS
LAWS STATEMENT OF POLICY
LAWS  The State recognizes the importance of
architects in nation building and
RA 9266
RA 9266 development.
RA8981  Hence, it shall develop and nurture
PRC-BOA competent, virtuous, productive and well-
Resolutions rounded professional architects whose
Civil Code
standards of practice and service shall be
RA8293
excellent, qualitative, world-class and
THE BUILDING & globally competitive.
PLANNING LAWS  This shall be done through inviolable,
honest, effective and credible licensure
PD1096 examinations and through regulatory
PD957 measures, programs and activities that
BP344 foster their professional growth and
BP220 development
 SECTION 3. DEFINITION OF TERMS.

As used in this “IRR of the Architecture Act of

2004”, in R.A. No. 9266 or other laws, the
THE ARCHITECTS following terms shall be defined as follows:
LAWS
1) “Architecture” is the art, science or
RA 9266 profession of planning, designing and
RA8981 constructing buildings in their totality taking
PRC-BOA
into account their environment, in
Resolutions
Civil Code accordance with the principles of utility,
RA8293 strength and beauty;

THE BUILDING & 2) “Architect” means a person professionally

PLANNING LAWS and cademically qualified, registered and
licensed under R.A. No. 9266 with a
PD1096 Certificate of Registration and Professional
PD957 Identification Card issued by the
BP344
Professional Regulatory Board of
BP220
Architecture and the Professional
 Regulation Commission, and who is
responsible for advocating the fair and
sustainable development, welfare and cultural
expression of society’s habitat in terms of
THE ARCHITECTS space, forms and historical context;
LAWS
3) “Architect-of-record” means the architect
RA 9266
registered and licensed under R.A. No. 9266,
RA8981
who is directly and professionally responsible
PRC-BOA
Resolutions for the total design of the project for the client
Civil Code and who shall assume the civil liability for the
RA8293 plans, specifications and contract documents
he/she has signed and sealed;
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 4) “Architect-in-charge of construction” means
an architect registered and licensed under
PD1096
R.A. No. 9266, who is directly and
PD957
professionally responsible and liable for the
BP344
BP220 construction supervision of the project;
 5) “Consulting Architect” means the architect
registered and licensed or permitted to
practice under R.A. No. 9266, who is
professionally and academically qualified
and with exceptional or recognized
THE ARCHITECTS expertise or specialization in any branch
LAWS
of architecture;
RA 9266
RA8981 6) “General Practice of Architecture” the act of
PRC-BOA planning and architectural designing,
Resolutions structural conceptualization, specifying,
Civil Code supervising and giving general administration
RA8293
and responsible direction to the erection,
enlargement or alterations of buildings and
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS building environments and architectural
design in engineering structures or any part
PD1096 thereof; the scientific, aesthetic and orderly
PD957 coordination of all the processes which enter
BP344 into the production of a complete building or
BP220 structure performed through the medium of
 unbiased preliminary studies of plans,
consultations, specifications, conferences,
evaluations, investigations, contract documents
and oral advice and directions regardless of
whether the persons engaged in such practice
THE ARCHITECTS are residents of the Philippines or have their
LAWS principal office or place of business in this
country or another territory, and regardless of
RA 9266 whether such persons are performing one or all
RA8981 these duties, or whether such duties are
PRC-BOA performed in person or as the directing head of
Resolutions an office or organization performing them;
Civil Code
RA8293 7) “Scope of the Practice of Architecture”
encompasses the provision of professional
THE BUILDING & services in connection with site, physical
PLANNING LAWS
and planning and the design, construction,
PD1096 enlargement, conservation, renovation,
PD957 remodeling, restoration or alteration of a
BP344 building or group of buildings. Services may
BP220 include, but are not limited to:
 (a) planning, architectural designing and
structural conceptualization;
(b) consultation, consultancy, giving oral or
written advice and directions, conferences,
evaluations, investigations, quality surveys,
THE ARCHITECTS appraisals and adjustments, architectural
LAWS and operational planning, site analysis and
other pre-design services;
RA 9266
RA8981 (c) schematic design, design development,
PRC-BOA contract documents and construction
Resolutions phases including professional
Civil Code consultancies;
RA8293
(d) preparation of preliminary, technical,
THE BUILDING & economic and financial feasibility studies of
PLANNING LAWS plans, models and project promotional
services;
PD1096
PD957 (e) preparation of architectural plans,
BP344 specifications, bill of materials, cost
BP220 estimates, general conditions and bidding
documents;
 (f) construction and project management,
giving general management,
administration, supervision, coordination
and responsible direction or the planning,
architectural designing, construction,
THE ARCHITECTS reconstruction, erection, enlargement or
LAWS demolition, renovation, repair, orderly
removal, remodeling, alteration,
RA 9266 preservation or restoration of buildings or
RA8981 structures or complex buildings,
PRC-BOA including all their components, sites and
Resolutions
environs, intended for private or public
Civil Code
RA8293 use;
(g) the planning, architectural lay-outing and
THE BUILDING & utilization of spaces within and
PLANNING LAWS surrounding such buildings or structures,
housing design and community
PD1096
PD957 architecture, architectural interiors and
BP344 space planning, architectural detailing,
BP220 architectural lighting, acoustics,
 architectural layouting of mechanical,
electrical, electronic, sanitary, plumbing,
communications and other utility
systems, equipment and fixtures;

(h) building programming, building

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS administration, construction arbitration
and architectural conservation and
RA 9266 restoration;
RA8981
PRC-BOA (i) all works which relate to the scientific,
Resolutions aesthetic and orderly coordination of all
Civil Code works and branches of the work, systems
RA8293
and processes necessary for the
production of a complete building or
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS structure, whether for public or private
use, in order to enhance or safeguard life,
PD1096 health and property and the promotion
PD957 and enrichment of the quality of life, the
BP344 architectural design of engineering
BP220 structures or any part thereof; and
 (j) all other works, projects and activities
which require the professional
competence of an architect, including
teaching of architectural subjects and
THE ARCHITECTS architectural computer-aided design;
LAWS
8) “Structural Conceptualization” means the act
RA 9266 of conceiving, choosing and developing the
RA8981 type, disposition, arrangement and
PRC-BOA proportioning of the structural elements of
Resolutions an architectural work giving due
Civil Code consideration to safety, cost-effectiveness,
RA8293 functionality and aesthetics;
THE BUILDING &
9) “Architectural Firm” means a sole
PLANNING LAWS
proprietorship, a partnership or a
PD1096 corporation registered with the DTI AND/OR
PD957 SEC and then with the Board of Architecture
BP344 and PRC;
BP220
 11) “Authorship” refers to the author or
authors of a set of architectural plans or
specifications who are in charge of their
preparation whether made by them
THE ARCHITECTS personally or under their immediate
LAWS supervision;

RA 9266 12)“Board” refers to the Professional

RA8981 Regulatory Board of Architecture;
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
13)“Commission” means the Professional
Civil Code
RA8293 Regulation Commission;

THE BUILDING & 14)“Service Agreement” means a duly

PLANNING LAWS notarized written contract or equivalent
public instrument stipulating the
PD1096 scope of services and
PD957 guaranteeing compensation of such
BP344 services to be rendered by an architect
BP220
registered and licensed under
 R.A. No. 9266; Violation of the Service
Agreement is a basis for a civil liability
under Art. 1723 of the Civil Code unless
he/she attempts and/or succeeds to
interfere or contravene the legal and
THE ARCHITECTS professional functions of the Architect-of-
LAWS Record: the Consulting Architect.

RA 9266 14)“Integrated and Accredited Professional

RA8981 Organization” means the existing official
PRC-BOA national organization of all architects of the
Resolutions
Philippines in which all registered Filipino
Civil Code
RA8293 architects shall be members without
prejudice to membership in other voluntary
THE BUILDING & professional associations;
PLANNING LAWS
15)“Continuing Professional Development”
PD1096 refers to a sustaining and progressive
PD957 learning process that maintains, enhances,
BP344 or increases the knowledge and continuing
BP220
ability of architects;
 16)“DTI” shall mean the Department of Trade
and Industry;

17)“SEC” shall mean the Securities and

Exchange Commission;
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS
18)“Association” any formal grouping of two or
RA 9266 more architects or architectural firms
RA8981 working in joint venture on a project basis.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions 19)“Architectural Company” means a juridical
Civil Code entity that shall be synonymous with an
RA8293
Architectural Partnership (see definition of
Architectural partnership) registered with the
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS SEC.

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 21)“Architecture Corporation” means a group of
professionals in architecture and allied
professions, incorporated with Architects for
the purpose of delivering professional
service in architecture and allied
professions; in case an existing Architectural
THE ARCHITECTS Corporation does not comply with the 75%
LAWS
composition requirement, it shall comply and
RA 9266 register again with the SEC and the BOA.
RA8981
PRC-BOA 22)“Architectural Documents” means an
Resolutions architectural drawings, specifications, and
Civil Code other outputs of an Architect that only an
RA8293 Architect can sign and seal consisting,
among others, of vicinity maps, site
THE BUILDING & development plans, architectural program,
PLANNING LAWS
perspective drawings, architectural floor
PD1096 plans, elevations, sections, ceiling plans,
PD957 schedules, detailed drawings, technical
BP344 specifications and cost estimates, and other
BP220 instruments of service in any form.
 23) “Architectural Interiors” means a detailed
planning and design of the indoor/enclosed
areas of any proposed building/structure,
including retrofit or renovation work and
which shall cover all architectural and utility
THE ARCHITECTS aspects, including the architectural lay-
LAWS
outing of all building engineering systems
RA 9266 found therein.
RA8981
PRC-BOA 24)“Architectural Partnership” means a group
Resolutions of two or more Architects duly registered
Civil Code with the SEC and then with the Board of
RA8293 Architecture.

THE BUILDING & 25) “Architectural Plans” means a two (2)-

PLANNING LAWS dimensional representations reflecting a proposed
development/redevelopment of an enclosed/ semi-
PD1096 enclosed or open area showing features or elements
PD957 such as columns, walls, partitions, ceiling, stairs,
BP344 doors, windows, floors, roof, room designations,
BP220 door and window call-outs, the architectural layout
 of equipment, furnishings, furniture and the like,
specifications callouts, elevation references, drawing
references and the like; the architectural plan is the
representation of a lateral section for a proposed
building/ structure (running parallel to the ground)
and at a height of from 1.0 – 1.5 meters above the
THE ARCHITECTS finished floor; the term may also collectively refer to
LAWS other architectural designs such as cross/
longitudinal sections, elevations, roof plan, reflected
RA 9266 ceiling plan; detailed sections and elevations
RA8981 showing architectural interiors, detailed architectural
PRC-BOA designs, door and window schedules, other
Resolutions architectural finishing schedules and the like.
Civil Code 26)“Building” means a structure for the purpose and
RA8293 function of habitation and other uses.

THE BUILDING & 27) “Certificate of Registration” means a certificate

PLANNING LAWS bearing a registration number, issued to an
individual, by the Professional Regulation
PD1096 Commission through the Board of Architecture,
PD957 signifying that the individual has successfully
BP344 passed the Licensure Examination and is
BP220 registered to practice his/her profession as
Architect.
 28) “Code of Ethical Conduct” means a document which
forms part of the Architects’ National Code which
contains the norms and principles governing the
practice of the profession of architecture in the
highest standards of ethical conduct.
THE ARCHITECTS 29) “Consulting Architect” a registered and licensed
LAWS Architect, who is academically and professionally
qualified, and with exceptional or recognized
RA 9266 expertise or specialization in any branch of
RA8981 architecture; the Consulting Architect assumes no
PRC-BOA civil liability under Art. 1723 of the Civil Code unless
Resolutions he/she attempts and/or succeeds to interfere or
Civil Code contravene the legal and professional functions of
RA8293 the Architect-of-Record; the Consulting Architect
assumes the normal civil liability under the service
THE BUILDING & agreement he/she signs with a Client.
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (26) “Contract Documents” are the documents attached
to the agreement identified therein as Contract
Documents, including all additions, deletions and
modifications incorporated therein. These generally
include the following documents:
a) Special Provisions or conditions
THE ARCHITECTS b) General Conditions
LAWS c) Drawings
d) Specifications
RA 9266 e) Other Bid Documents
RA8981
PRC-BOA (27) “Copyright (or Copyright Ownership)” shall refer to
Resolutions the intellectual proprietary rights retained by an
Architect over any architectural documents/ work that
Civil Code
he/she prepares unless there is a written stipulation to
RA8293
the contrary, copyright in a work of architecture shall
include the right to control the erection of any building
THE BUILDING & which reproduces the whole or a substantial part of the
PLANNING LAWS work either in its original form or in any form
recognizably derived from the original; however, the
PD1096 copyright in any such work shall not include the right to
PD957 control the reconstruction or rehabilitation in the same
BP344 style as the original of a building to which the copyright
BP220 relates.
 (28) “CPD Providers” means an entities,
agencies, organizations and the like that have
been accredited/registered with the Board of
Architecture of the Professional Regulation
THE ARCHITECTS Commission to deliver seminars, lectures, and
LAWS other continuing professional education
modules for architects, other than the Integrated
RA 9266
RA8981 Accredited Professional Organization of
PRC-BOA Architects which is automatically accredited by
Resolutions the Board of Architecture as a CPD Provider.
Civil Code
RA8293 (29) “Diversified Architectural Experience” a
post-baccalaureate, pre-licensure experience of
THE BUILDING & two (2) years required of a graduate of
PLANNING LAWS architecture prior to taking the licensure
examination; consisting of a variation of
PD1096
PD957 experiences in the different phases of
BP344 architectural service.
BP220
 (30) “Foreign Architect” means an architect who
is not a Filipino citizen nor an Architect
registered and licensed in the Philippines, but
who is duly registered and licensed in his/her
THE ARCHITECTS home country as an Architect.
LAWS
(31) “Filipino Counterpart” the local Philippine
RA 9266
RA8981 architect, partnership or corporation that must
PRC-BOA work in association with a foreign architect,
Resolutions partnership or corporation, on a project on
Civil Code Philippine soil.
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (32) “Ownership” shall refer to proprietary
rights to an architectural work such as plans,
designs and other documents by a person/
juridical entity who commissions the Architect
and whose ownership of an architectural work
THE ARCHITECTS by such a person/ juridical entity shall only be
LAWS confined to the use of the architectural
documents for executing /implementing the
RA 9266
work described therein for one (1) or the
RA8981
original project; ownership shall not apply to
PRC-BOA
Resolutions the use of a part of or of the entire architectural
Civil Code work/architectural documents to repetitions or
RA8293 to subsequent projects.

THE BUILDING & (33) “Planning” refers to physical planning at

PLANNING LAWS site, community or urban level by an Architect.
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (34) “Physical Planner” refers to an Architect
who specializes in the detailed physical
planning of land or property on which vertical
structures such as buildings and/or structures
THE ARCHITECTS and horizontal developments such as rights-of-
LAWS way, open spaces and recreational/ sports/
entertainment/ tourism and related facilities are
RA 9266 to be proposed.
RA8981
PRC-BOA (35) “Physical Planning” the detailed physical
Resolutions
planning of land or property on which vertical
Civil Code
RA8293 structures such as buildings, monuments
and/or structures and horizontal developments
THE BUILDING & such as rights-of-way, open spaces and
PLANNING LAWS recreational/ sports/ establishments/ tourism
and related facilities are to be proposed.
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (36) “Professional” refers to a person whose
name and registration/professional license
number is entered in the Professional
Regulation Commission registry book and
THE ARCHITECTS computerized database as one legally
LAWS authorized to practice his profession.

RA 9266 (37) “Professional Identification Card” a

RA8981 document bearing the registration number, date
PRC-BOA of issuance with an expiry date, due for periodic
Resolutions renewal, duly signed by the Chairperson of the
Civil Code PRC to a registered Architect upon payment of
RA8293
the annual registration fees for three (3) years.
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS (38) “Site Planning” the detailed site
development planning of all areas surrounding
PD1096 a building/structure and/or a group of
PD957 buildings/structures but only within the
BP344 property limits of the land on which such
BP220 buildings/structures are to be erected.
 (39) “Standards of Professional Practice”
means a document embodied in the Architects
National Code, which defines all aspects of
professional service, prescribes minimum basic
THE ARCHITECTS fees and establishes the rights and obligations
LAWS of both the Architect and the client.

RA 9266 (40) “Sole Proprietorship” means an individual

RA8981 Architect practicing and delivering architectural
PRC-BOA services, duly registered with the DTI, BOA and
Resolutions
the PRC.
Civil Code
RA8293
(41) “Specialization” an expertise and special
THE BUILDING & knowledge in the field of architecture acquired
PLANNING LAWS by an Architect through formal education and
training or through continuing professional
PD1096 development and experience, for which the
PD957 Architect may be engaged as Consulting
BP344 Architect.
BP220
 (42) “Syllabi” the outlines embodying topics and
concepts of major subjects prescribed in
specific course of study to serve as basis for
test questions in the licensure examinations.

THE ARCHITECTS (43) “Technology Transfer” refers to contracts or

LAWS arrangements involving the transfer of
systematic knowledge for the manufacture of a
RA 9266 product, the application of a process, or
RA8981 rendering of a service including management
PRC-BOA contracts; and the transfer, assignment or
Resolutions
licensing of all forms of intellectual
Civil Code
RA8293 property rights.

THE BUILDING & (44) “Urban Design” physical and systemic

PLANNING LAWS design undertaken by an Architect on a
community and urban plane, more
PD1096 comprehensive than, and an extension of the
PD957 architecture of buildings, spaces between
BP344 buildings, entourage, utilities and movement
BP220
systems.
 (45) Acronyms and Laws:

(a) ARCHITECTURE ACT OF 2004 – R.A. No. 9266

(b) BOA – Board of Architecture
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS (c) CHED – Commission on Higher Education

RA 9266 (d) CIAC – Construction Industry Arbitration

RA8981 Commission
PRC-BOA
Resolutions (e) CPD – Continuing Professional Development
Civil Code
RA8293 (f) DOLE – Department of Labor and Employment

THE BUILDING & (g) DTI – Department of Trade and Industry

PLANNING LAWS
(h) IAPOA – Integrated Accredited Professional
PD1096 Organization of Architects
PD957 (the same as United Architects of the Philippines,
BP344 Inc.)
BP220
 (i) Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines –
R.A. No. 8293
(j) PCAB – Philippine Contractors Accreditation
Board
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS (k) PDCB – Philippine Domestic Construction
Board Page
RA 9266
RA8981
(l) PRB – Professional Regulatory Board (the
PRC-BOA same as BOA for the profession of
Resolutions architecture)
Civil Code
RA8293
(m) PRC – Professional Regulation Commission
(n) PRC Modernization Act of 2000 – R.A. No. 8981
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS (o) SEC – Securities and Exchange Commission

PD1096 (p) UAP – United Architects of the Philippines, Inc

PD957
BP344 PROCEED TO RULE III (36)
BP220
 RULE II

PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF

ARCHITECTURE: ORGANIZATION, POWERS,
THE ARCHITECTS AND FUNCTIONS
LAWS
SECTION 4. Creation and Composition of the
RA 9266 Professional Regulatory Board
RA8981
PRC-BOA There is hereby created a Professional
Resolutions
Regulatory Board of Architecture, hereinafter
Civil Code
RA8293 referred to as the Board, a collegial body under
the supervision and administrative control of
THE BUILDING & the Professional Regulation Commission,
PLANNING LAWS hereinafter referred to as the Commission, is
composed of a chairman and two (2) members
PD1096 appointed by the President of the Philippines
PD957 from a list of three (3) recommendees chosen
BP344 from a list of five (5) nominees for each position
BP220
 submitted to the Commission by the integrated
and the accredited professional organization of
architects. The Board shall be organized not
later than six (6) months from the effectivity of
THE ARCHITECTS the Architecture Act of 2004.
LAWS
SECTION 5. Qualifications of Members of the
RA 9266 Professional Regulatory Board
RA8981
PRC-BOA Each Member shall, at the time of his/her
Resolutions
appointment, possess the following
Civil Code
RA8293 qualifications:

THE BUILDING & (a) be a citizen and a resident of the Philippines;

PLANNING LAWS
(b) be a holder of a degree in Bachelor of
PD1096 Science in Architecture conferred by a school,
PD957 college or university in the Philippines or
BP344 abroad that is recognized and/or accredited by
BP220
the Commission on Higher Education (CHED);
 SECTION 5. Qualifications of Members of the
Professional Regulatory Board

Each Member shall, at the time of his/her

appointment, possess the following
THE ARCHITECTS qualifications:
LAWS

RA 9266 (a) be a citizen and a resident of the Philippines;

RA8981
PRC-BOA (b) be a holder of a degree in Bachelor of
Resolutions Science in Architecture conferred by a school,
Civil Code college or university in the Philippines or
RA8293 abroad that is recognized and/or accredited by
the Commission on Higher Education (CHED);
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS
(c) be an architect with a valid Certificate of
PD1096 Registration and Professional Identification
PD957 Card and active practitioner of architecture for
BP344 at least ten (10) years on the date of his/her
BP220 appointment;
 (c) be an architect with a valid Certificate of
Registration and Professional Identification
Card and active practitioner of architecture for
at least ten (10) years on the date of his/her
THE ARCHITECTS appointment;
LAWS
(d) not be a member of the faculty of any
RA 9266 school, college, university or review institution
RA8981 where a regular course or review course in
PRC-BOA architecture is taught, nor have pecuniary
Resolutions
interest in such institution. No former member
Civil Code
RA8293 of the faculty of any school, institute, university
or review center where architecture is taught
THE BUILDING & can become a member of the Board unless
PLANNING LAWS he/she had officially resigned from such an
institution and has completely stopped
PD1096 teaching, advising or reviewing activities for at
PD957 least five (5) years prior to the nomination;
BP344
BP220
 (e) has never been convicted of any crime
involving moral turpitude; and

(f) not be an elective officer of the Integrated

and Accredited Professional Organization of
THE ARCHITECTS
Architects and other Professional Organization
LAWS
of Architects.
RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 6. Term of Office

The members of the Board shall hold office for a

term of three (3) years after appointment or until
THE ARCHITECTS their successors shall have been appointed and
LAWS duly qualified. Any vacancy occurring within
the term of a member shall be filled for the
RA 9266
unexpired portion of the term only. Each
RA8981
PRC-BOA member of the Board may be reappointed for
Resolutions one full term of three (3) years. Of the members
Civil Code of the Board first appointed under R.A. No.
RA8293 9266, one (1) member shall be appointed and
hold office as chairman for three (3) years, one
THE BUILDING & (1) member for two (2) years, and one (1)
PLANNING LAWS member for one (1) year. Each member of the
Board shall qualify by taking the proper oath
PD1096
prior to the performance of their duties:
PD957
BP344 Provided, That the incumbent members of the
BP220 Board shall continue to serve for the remainder
 Board shall continue to serve for the remainder
of their term as members of the herein created
Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture
until a new Board shall have been properly
organized: Provided, Further that the incumbent
THE ARCHITECTS members of the Board may be appointed as
LAWS
members of the First Board.
RA 9266
RA8981 SECTION 7. Powers and Functions of the
PRC-BOA Board
Resolutions
Civil Code The Board shall exercise the following specific
RA8293 powers, functions and responsibilities:

THE BUILDING & (a) Prescribe and adopt the “IRR of the
PLANNING LAWS
Architecture Act of 2004” for carrying out the
PD1096 provisions of R.A. No. 9266;
PD957
BP344 (b) Supervise the registration, licensure and
BP220 practice of architects;
 (c) Administer oaths in connection with the
administration of R.A. No. 9266;

(d) Issue, suspend, revoke, or reinstate the

Certificate of Registration and the Professional
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS Identification Card for the practice of the
architecture profession;
RA 9266
RA8981 (e) Adopt an official seal of the Board;
PRC-BOA
Resolutions (f) Monitor the conditions affecting the practice
Civil Code of architecture and adopt such measures as
RA8293
may be deemed proper for the enhancement
and maintenance of high professional, ethical
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS and technical standards of the profession;

PD1096 (g) Prescribe and/or adopt the Code of Ethical

PD957 Conduct and Standards of Professional
BP344 Practice;
BP220
 (h) Hear and decide administrative cases
involving violations of R.A. No. 9266, the “IRR of
the Architecture Act of 2004”, the Code of
Ethical Conduct and Standards of Professional
THE ARCHITECTS Practice and for this purpose, to issue
LAWS subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena
duces tecum to secure the appearance of
RA 9266
witnesses and the production of documents in
RA8981
connection therewith; Provided, That the
PRC-BOA
Resolutions decision of the Board shall, unless appealed to
Civil Code the Commission, become final and executory
RA8293 after fifteen (15) days from receipt of notice of
judgment or decision. The decision of the
THE BUILDING & Commission may be appealed to the Court of
PLANNING LAWS Appeals
in accordance with the procedure under the
PD1096
Rules of Court;
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (i) Prescribe guidelines for the Continuing
Professional Development (CPD) program in
consultation with the integrated and
accredited professional organization of
THE ARCHITECTS architects: Provided, That the attendance to
LAWS said CPD shall not be a mandatory
requirement for the renewal of a
RA 9266
professional Identification Card;
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions (j) Prepare, adopt, issue or amend the syllabi of
Civil Code the subjects for examinations in consultation
RA8293 with the academe, determine and prepare
questions which shall be within the scope of the
THE BUILDING & syllabi of the subject for examination as well
PLANNING LAWS as administer, correct and release the results of
the licensure examinations;
PD1096
PD957
(k) Approve, issue, limit or cancel temporary or
BP344
BP220 special permit to practice architecture;
 orderly implementation of this provision, the
Board and the Commission may enter into a
Memorandum of Agreement with the CHED.

(m)To adopt a program for the full

computerization of the licensure examination;
THE ARCHITECTS and
LAWS
(n) Discharge such other duties and functions
RA 9266 as may be deemed necessary for the
RA8981 enhancement of the architecture profession and
PRC-BOA the upgrading, development and growth of the
Resolutions
architecture education. The policies,
Civil Code
RA8293 resolutions, rules and regulations, issued or
promulgated by the Board shall be subject to
THE BUILDING & review and approval of the Commission.
PLANNING LAWS However, the Board’s decisions, resolutions or
orders rendered in administrative cases shall
PD1096 be subject to review only if on appeal.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (n) Discharge such other duties and functions
as may be deemed necessary for the
enhancement of the architecture profession and
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS the upgrading, development and growth of the
architecture education. The policies,
RA 9266 resolutions, rules and regulations, issued or
RA8981 promulgated by the Board shall be subject to
PRC-BOA review and approval of the Commission.
Resolutions However, the Board’s decisions, resolutions or
Civil Code orders rendered in administrative cases shall
RA8293
be subject to review only if on appeal.
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 8. Administrative Supervision of the
Board, Custodian of its Records, Secretariat
and Support Services

The Board shall be under the administrative

THE ARCHITECTS supervision of the Commission. All records of
LAWS the Board, including applications for
examination, examination questions, answer
RA 9266 sheets, and other records and documents
RA8981 pertaining to licensure examination,
PRC-BOA administrative and other investigative cases
Resolutions
conducted by the Board shall be under the
Civil Code
RA8293 custody of the Commission. The Commission
shall designate the Secretary of the Board and
THE BUILDING & shall provide the secretariat and other support
PLANNING LAWS services to implement the provisions of R.A. No.
9266.
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 9. Grounds for Suspension or
Removal of Members of the Board

The President of the Philippines, upon the

recommendation of the Commission, after giving
THE ARCHITECTS the concerned member an opportunity to defend
LAWS himself in a proper administrative investigation
to be conducted by the Commission, may
RA 9266 suspend or remove any member on the
RA8981 following grounds:
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
(a) Neglect of duty or incompetence;
Civil Code
RA8293
(b) Violation or tolerance of the violation of R.A.
THE BUILDING & No. 9266, or its implementing rules and
PLANNING LAWS regulations or the Code of Ethical Conduct and
Standards of Professional Practice;
PD1096
PD957 (c) Final judgment of crimes involving moral
BP344 turpitude; and
BP220
 (d) Manipulation or rigging of the architecture
licensure examination results, disclosure of
secret and confidential information in the
examination questions prior to the conduct of
the said examination or tampering of grades.
THE ARCHITECTS The Commission in the conduct of the
LAWS investigation shall be guided by Sec. 7(s) of R.A.
No. 8981.
RA 9266
RA8981 SECTION 10. Compensation and Allowances of
PRC-BOA the Board
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293 The chairman and members of the Board shall
receive compensation and allowances
THE BUILDING & comparable to that being received by the
PLANNING LAWS chairman and members of existing regulatory
Boards under the Commission as provided for
PD1096 in the General Appropriations Act.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 11. Annual Report

The Board shall submit an annual report to the

Commission after the close of each year giving
a detailed account of its proceedings during
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS the year and making such recommendations as
it may deem proper.
RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 RULE III

EXAMINATION, REGISTRATION AND

LICENSURE

THE ARCHITECTS SECTION 12. Examination Required

LAWS
All applicants for registration for the practice of
RA 9266 architecture shall be required to undergo a
RA8981 licensure examination to be given by the Board
PRC-BOA in such places and dates as the Commission
Resolutions
may designate in accordance with the
Civil Code
RA8293 provisions of Republic Act No. 8981.

THE BUILDING & SECTION 13. Qualifications of Applicant for

PLANNING LAWS Examination

PD1096 Any person applying for examination shall

PD957 establish to the satisfaction of the Board that:
BP344
BP220
 (a) He/she is a Filipino citizen or a citizen of a
foreign country qualified to take the
examination as provided for in Sec. 27, Art. IV of
R.A. No. 9266 as carried out by Sec. 27, Rule IV
of this “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”;
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS (b) He/she is of good moral character;

RA 9266 (c) He/she is a holder of the degree of Bachelor

RA8981 of Science in Architecture conferred by a
PRC-BOA school, college, academy or institute duly
Resolutions recognized and/or accredited by the
Civil Code Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and
RA8293
in addition has a specific record of at least two
(2) years or equivalent of diversified
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS architectural experience duly certified by a
registered/licensed architect: Provided,
PD1096 however, That an applicant holding a Master’s
PD957 Degree in Architecture from a school, college,
BP344 university or institute recognized by the
BP220
 government shall be credited one (1) year in
his/her practical experience; and

(d) He/she has not been convicted of any

THE ARCHITECTS criminal offense involving moral turpitude.
LAWS
The following documents shall be submitted in
RA 9266
support of the above requirements:
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions (1) Certificate of Live Birth in National Statistics
Civil Code Office
RA8293 (NSO) Security Paper

THE BUILDING & (2) Marriage Contract in NSO Security Paper for
PLANNING LAWS married female applicants
PD1096
(3) College Diploma with indication therein of
PD957
BP344 date of graduation and Special Order Number
BP220 unless it is not required it is not required
 (4) Baccalaureate Transcript of Records with
indication therein of date of graduation and
Special Order Number unless it is not required

(5) Accomplished Diversified Training (DT Form

THE ARCHITECTS
001)
LAWS

RA 9266 (6) Accomplished Diversified Training (DT Form

RA8981 002)
PRC-BOA
Resolutions (7) Architect-Mentor Affidavit
Civil Code
RA8293 (8) Photocopy of Architect-Mentor’s valid
Professional Identification Card, Professional
THE BUILDING & Tax Receipt and IAPOA number
PLANNING LAWS
(9) National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
PD1096
Clearance
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (10) Other documents the Board may require.

Fraudulent Applications of Candidate and

Mentor – The Board may refuse to renew a
THE ARCHITECTS professional identification card, or may
LAWS
suspend, or revoke, any certificate of
RA 9266 registration obtained by false swearing or any
RA8981 misrepresentations made in applying for
PRC-BOA registration or examination and may refuse to
Resolutions renew or grant registration to any applicant
Civil Code whose application contains such false evidence
RA8293 or information.

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 14. Subjects for Examination

The licensure examination for architects shall

cover, but are not limited to, the following
subjects:
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS (1) History and Theory of Architecture;
Principles of Planning and Architectural
RA 9266 Practice
RA8981
PRC-BOA Part I: History of Architecture
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293 A. Rationale and Description

THE BUILDING & 1. Analysis of architectural manifestations

PLANNING LAWS from the beginning of civilization to
contemporary periods of development;
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 2. Analysis of the influences of
environmental, historical, and socio-cultural
factors and their relevance to the development
of art, buildings, structures, as well as of human
settlements.
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Part II: Theory of Architecture

A. Rationale and Description

THE ARCHITECTS 1. Understanding of the theories and

LAWS principles of design and architectural
design process;
RA 9266
RA8981 2. Analysis of anthropometric, proxemic, and
PRC-BOA kinesthetic requirements of space in
Resolutions
relation to architectural design;
Civil Code
RA8293
3. Analysis of socio cultural and
THE BUILDING & technological trends which are contributory to the
PLANNING LAWS development of contemporary architecture.

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 Part III: Architectural Practice

A. Rationale and Description

THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS 1. Understanding of the role, legal rights and
obligations, and responsibilities of the
RA 9266 architect
RA8981
PRC-BOA 2. Analysis and application of the various
Resolutions
statutes, codes, and regulations
Civil Code
RA8293 affecting the practice of architecture in the
Philippines
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 3. Understanding of the various aspects of
the professional practice of architecture,
PD1096 including tools and techniques related to
PD957 production, construction, resource
BP344 allocation, and project management, as well as
BP220
the efficient conduct of client and business
 Part IV: Theory and Principles of Planning
A. Rationale and Description
1. Analysis of the concepts and techniques in the
THE ARCHITECTS general planning process, regional planning,
LAWS land use planning, and human settlements
planning
RA 9266
2. Understanding of the art and science of site
RA8981
planning with emphasis on ecological,
PRC-BOA socio-psychological, aesthetic, and functional
Resolutions basis of site planning.
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 (2) Structural Design, Building Materials, and
Architectural Specifications, and Methods
of Construction and Utilities;
Part I: Structural Design
A. Rationale and Description
THE ARCHITECTS 1. Understanding of the fundamentals of
LAWS mechanics, strength of materials, and theory
of structures
RA 9266
RA8981 2. General design, principles, and analysis of the
structural elements of various types of
PRC-BOA
construction materials and systems.
Resolutions
Civil Code Part II: Building Materials and Methods of Construction
RA8293
A. Rationale and Description
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS 1. Understanding of the properties of building
construction and finishing materials; their
PD1096 application and articulation; systems and
PD957 methods of specifying and construction;
BP344 2. Application of the principles of design and
BP220 construction methods of various types of
materials used in construction.
 Part III: Utilities
A. Rationale and Description
1. Understanding of the basic practices,
principles, general design and installation,
and/or construction of utilities required for a
THE ARCHITECTS building or structure and its premises;
LAWS 2. Analysis of utility, facility, and equipment
requirements in relation to aesthetic, function,
RA 9266 and strength of a building or structure and its
RA8981 premises.
PRC-BOA
(3) Urban Design and Architectural Interiors
Resolutions
Civil Code Part I: Urban Design
RA8293
A. Rationale and Description
THE BUILDING & 1. Analysis of the concepts and techniques in the
PLANNING LAWS general planning process of the physical and
systematic design on a community and urban
PD1096 plane on a more comprehensive manner.
PD957 2. Understanding of the art and science of urban
BP344 design with emphasis on ecological, socio-
BP220 psychological, aesthetic and functional basis of
urban design.
 Part II: Architectural Interiors
A. Rationale and Description
1. Understanding of the theories and principles of
Architectural Interiors.
2. Analysis of anthropometric, proxemic, and
THE ARCHITECTS kinesthetic requirements of space in relation to
LAWS Architectural Interiors.
(4) Architectural Design and Site Planning
RA 9266
RA8981 A. Rationale and Objectives
PRC-BOA 1. Application of logical approach to architectural
Resolutions interiors, urban design and site planning
Civil Code solutions to architectural and planning problems
RA8293 with emphasis on design methodology,
quantitative and qualitative aspects of space,
THE BUILDING & circulation, and interrelationships of space,
PLANNING LAWS structural and form envelopes, and building
utilities and facilities.
PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 2. Application of skills and ability to visualize
architectural design problems and present
solutions in appropriate graphical language.
The Board, subject to the approval of the
Commission, may revise or exclude any of the
subjects and their syllabi, and add new ones as
THE ARCHITECTS the need arises to conform to technological
LAWS changes brought about by continuing trends in
the profession.
RA 9266
RA8981 SECTION 15. Rating in the Licensure Examination
PRC-BOA To be qualified as having passed the licensure
Resolutions examination for architects, a candidate must obtain a
Civil Code weighted general average of seventy percent (70%), with
RA8293 no grade lower than fifty percent (50%) in any given
subject. The Board may adopt its own internal
THE BUILDING & procedures on the implementation of this provision.
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 16. Report of Ratings
The Board shall submit to the Commission the ratings
obtained by each candidate within thirty (30) calendar
days after the examination, unless extended for just
cause. Upon the release of the results of the
THE ARCHITECTS examination, the Board shall send by mail the rating
LAWS received by each examinee at his/her given address
using the mailing envelope submitted during the
RA 9266 examination: Provided, That, the report of rating may be
RA8981 distributed to the successful examinees during their
PRC-BOA mass oathtaking as new registered and licensed
Resolutions architects.
Civil Code SECTION 17. Oath
RA8293
All successful candidates in the examination shall be
THE BUILDING & required to take an oath of profession before any
PLANNING LAWS member of the Board, any government official
authorized by the Commission pursuant to Sec. 7(k) of
R.A. No. 8981 or any person authorized by law to
PD1096
administer oaths, prior to entering upon the practice of
PD957 the profession.
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 18. Issuance of Certificates of Registration and
Professional Identification Card
A certificate of Registration and Professional
Identification Card shall be issued to examinees who
pass the licensure examination subject to payment of
fees prescribed by the Commission. The Certificate of
THE ARCHITECTS Registration shall bear the signature of the chairperson
LAWS of the Commission and the chairman and members of the
Board, stamped with the official seal of the Board and the
RA 9266 Commission, indicating that the person named therein is
RA8981 entitled to the practice of the profession with all the
PRC-BOA privileges appurtenant thereto. The said certificate shall
Resolutions remain in full force and effect until withdrawn,
Civil Code suspended or revoked in accordance with R.A. No. 9266.
RA8293 A Professional Identification Card bearing the
registration number, date of issuance, expiry date, duly
THE BUILDING & signed by the chairperson of the Commission, shall
PLANNING LAWS likewise be issued to every registrant who has paid the
prescribed fee of annual registration for three (3) years;
PD1096 Provided, That, the reissuance or renewal of the said
card shall be subject to payment of the annual
PD957
registration fees for another and every after three (3)
BP344
years.
BP220
 SECTION 19. Roster of Architects
A roster showing the names and place of business
including other personal material and relevant data of all
registered professional architects shall be prepared and
updated by the Board and copies thereof shall be made
available to any party as may be deemed necessary.
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS SECTION 20. Seal, Issuance and Use of Seal
A duly licensed architect shall affix the seal prescribed
RA 9266 by the Board bearing the registrant’s name, registration
RA8981 number and title “Architect” on all architectural plans,
PRC-BOA drawings, specifications and all other contract
Resolutions documents prepared by or under his/her direct
Civil Code supervision.
RA8293
(1) Each registrant hereunder shall, upon registration,
obtain a seal of such design as the Board shall authorize
THE BUILDING &
and direct. Architectural plans and specifications
PLANNING LAWS
prepared by, or under the direct supervision of a
registered architect shall be stamped with said seal
PD1096 during the life of the registrants certificate, and it shall be
PD957 unlawful for any one to stamp or seal any documents
BP344 with said seal after the certificate of the registrant named
BP220 thereon has expired or has been revoked, unless said
certificate shall have been renewed or re-issued.
 (2) No officer or employee of this Republic, chartered
cities, provinces and municipalities, now or hereafter
charged with the enforcement of laws, ordinances or
regulations relating to the construction or alteration of
buildings, shall accept or approve any architectural
plans or specifications which have not been prepared
THE ARCHITECTS and submitted in full accord with all the provisions of
LAWS R.A. No. 9266; nor shall any payments be approved by
any such officer for any work, the plans and
RA 9266 specifications for which have not been so prepared and
RA8981 signed and sealed by the author.
PRC-BOA (3) It shall be unlawful for any architect to sign his/her
Resolutions name, affix his/her seal or use any other method of
Civil Code signature on architectural plans, specifications or other
RA8293 documents made under another architect’s supervision,
unless the same is made in such manner as to clearly
THE BUILDING & indicate the part or parts of such work actually
PLANNING LAWS performed by the former, and it shall be unlawful for any
person, except the architect-of-record, to sign for any
PD1096 branch of work for any function of architectural practice,
PD957 not actually performed by him/her. The architect-of-
BP344 record, shall be fully responsible for all architectural
plans, specifications and other documents issued under
BP220
his/her seal or authorized signature.
 (4) Drawings and specifications duly signed, stamped or
sealed, as instruments of service, are the intellectual
properties and documents of the architect, whether the
object for which they are made is executed or not. It shall
be unlawful for any person, without the consent of the
THE ARCHITECTS architect or author of said documents, to duplicate or to
LAWS make copies of said documents for use in the repetition
of and for other projects or buildings, whether executed
partly or in whole.
RA 9266
RA8981 (5) All architectural plans, designs, specifications,
PRC-BOA drawings and architectural documents relative to the
Resolutions construction of a building shall bear the seal and
Civil Code signature only of an architect registered and licensed
RA8293 under R.A. No. 9266 together with his/her professional
identification card number and the date of its expiration.
THE BUILDING & The Board shall prescribe the design, size, and contents
PLANNING LAWS of the dry seal to be used in signing and sealing of
architectural plans, drawings, specifications, contract
documents and architectural permit prepared by or under
PD1096
his/her direct supervision.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 21. Indication of Certificate of
Registration/Professional Identification Card and
Professional Tax Receipt

The architect shall be required to indicate the number

of his/her Certificate of Registration and Professional
THE ARCHITECTS Identification Card (PIC) with its date of issuance and
LAWS the duration of validity, including the professional tax
receipt number which the City/Municipal Treasurer shall
RA 9266 issue to the registered architect upon presentation of
RA8981 his/her current PIC, on the documents he/she signs,
PRC-BOA uses or issues in connection with the practice of
Resolutions his/her profession.
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 22. Refusal to Issue Certificate of Registration
and Professional Identification Card
The Board shall not register and issue a Certificate of
Registration and Professional Identification Card to any
person who has falsely sworn or misrepresented
himself/herself in his/her application for examination or
THE ARCHITECTS to any person convicted by a court of competent
LAWS jurisdiction of a criminal offense involving moral
turpitude or guilty of immoral and dishonorable conduct
RA 9266 or to any person of unsound mind. In the event of
RA8981 refusal to issue certificate for any reason, the Board shall
PRC-BOA give the applicant a written statement setting forth the
Resolutions reasons for such action, which statement shall be
Civil Code incorporated in the record of the Board: Provided,
RA8293 however, That registration shall not be refused and a
name shall not be removed from the roster of architects
on conviction for a political offense or for an offense
THE BUILDING &
which should not, in the opinion of the Board, either from
PLANNING LAWS the nature of the offense or from the circumstances of
the case, disqualify a person from practicing under R.A.
PD1096 No. 9266. The Board in the written statement shall state
PD957 the period for the deferment of the registration if the
BP344 offense or act committed does not call for indefinite
BP220 period and/or perpetual deprivation of the chance to
register.
 SECTION 23. Suspension and Revocation of
Certificates of Registration, Professional
Identification Card or the Special/Temporary Permit
The Board shall have the power, upon notice and
hearing, to suspend or revoke the validity of a
Certificate of Registration/Professional Identification
THE ARCHITECTS Card, or shall cancel a special permit granted under R.A.
LAWS No. 9266 to an architect, on any ground mentioned
under Section 22 hereof for the use of or perpetuation of
RA 9266 any fraud or deceit in obtaining a Certificate of
RA8981 Registration and Professional Identification Card or
PRC-BOA special/temporary permit; for gross negligence or
Resolutions incompetence; for unprofessional or dishonorable
Civil Code conduct; or for any cause specified hereunder;
RA8293 Provided, however, That such action of the Board shall
be subject to appeal to the Commission whose decision
THE BUILDING & shall be final if he/she:
PLANNING LAWS (a) has signed and affixed or permitted to be signed or
affixed his name or seal on architectural plans and
PD1096 designs, specifications, drawings, technical reports,
PD957 valuation, estimates, or other similar documents or work
BP344 not prepared by him/her or not executed under his/her
BP220 immediate supervision; or
 (b) has paid money except the regular fees provided for
to secure a Certificate of Registration; or

(c) has falsely impersonated a practitioner, or former

practitioner of alike or different name or has practiced
THE ARCHITECTS
under an assumed, fictitious or corporate name other
LAWS
than that of the registered; or
RA 9266 (d) has aided or abetted in the practice of architecture
RA8981 any person not duly authorized to practice architecture
PRC-BOA in the Philippines; or
Resolutions
Civil Code (e) has openly solicited projects by actually undertaking
RA8293 architectural services without a valid service agreement
guaranteeing compensation of services to be rendered
THE BUILDING & and/or has actually allowed himself/herself to be
PLANNING LAWS exploited by undertaking architectural services without
a valid service agreement, both acts being prejudicial to
PD1096 other architects registered and licensed under R.A. No.
PD957 9266 and inimical to the interests of the profession; or
BP344
BP220
 (f) has violated any provision of R.A. No. 9266, its
implementing rules and regulations, the Code of Ethical
Conduct and Standards of Professional Practice. The
Board shall periodically examine the grounds for the
revocation of the Certificate of Registration and
THE ARCHITECTS Professional Identification Card and update these as
LAWS necessary under the implementing rules and regulations.
Any person, firm or association, may prepare charges in
RA 9266 accordance with the provisions of this section against
RA8981 any registrant, or the Board may motu proprio
PRC-BOA investigate and/or take cognizance of acts and practices
Resolutions constituting sufficient cause for suspension or
Civil Code revocation of the Certificate of Registration by proper
RA8293 resolution or order. Such charges shall be in writing and
shall be sworn to by the person making them and shall
THE BUILDING & be filed with the Secretary of the Board. The rules on
PLANNING LAWS administrative investigation issued by the Commission
shall govern the hearing or investigation of the case,
subject to applicable provisions of R.A. No. 9266, R.A.
PD1096
No. 8981, and the Rules of Court.
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 24. Re-issuance or Replacement of Revoked
or Lost Certificates of Registration,
Professional Identification Card or Special and
Temporary Permit
THE ARCHITECTS
The Board may, after the expiration of two (2) years
LAWS
from the date of revocation of a Certificate of
Registration, Professional Identification Card or
RA 9266 special/temporary permit, and upon application and for
RA8981 reasons deemed proper and sufficient, reinstate the
PRC-BOA validity of a revoked Certificate of Registration and in
Resolutions so doing may, in its discretion, exempt the applicant
Civil Code from taking another examination.
RA8293 The Board shall issue a Resolution, subject to approval
by the Commission, in granting a petition for
THE BUILDING & reinstatement to the practice of architecture.
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 RULE IV
PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE (SUNDRY PROVISIONS)
SECTION 25. Registration of Architects Required
No person shall practice architecture in this country, or
THE ARCHITECTS engage in preparing architectural plans, specifications
LAWS or preliminary data for the erection or alteration of any
building located within the boundaries of this country, or
RA 9266 use the title “Architect”, or display the word “Architect”
RA8981 together with another word, or display or use any title,
PRC-BOA sign, card, advertisement, or other device to indicate
Resolutions such person practices or offers to practice architecture,
Civil Code or is an architect, unless such person shall have
RA8293 received from the Board a Certificate of Registration
and be issued a Professional Identification Card in the
manner hereinafter provided and shall thereafter
THE BUILDING &
comply with the provisions of R.A. No. 9266.
PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 A foreign architect or any person not authorized to
practice architecture in the Philippines, who shall
stay in the country and perform any of the activities
mentioned in Sections 3 and 4 of R.A. No. 9266, or
THE ARCHITECTS any other activity analogous thereto, in connection
LAWS with the construction of any
building/structure/edifice or land development
RA 9266 project, shall be deemed engaged in the
RA8981 unauthorized practice of architecture and shall,
PRC-BOA therefore, be criminally liable under R.A. No. 9266
Resolutions and this “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”.
Civil Code
RA8293

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

PD1096
PD957
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 26. Vested Rights. Architects Registered
When This Law is Passed
All architects registered at the time this law takes effect
shall automatically be registered under the provisions
hereof, subject, however, to the provisions herein set
forth as to future requirements. Certificates of
Registration and Professional Identification Cards held
THE ARCHITECTS by such persons in good standing shall have the same
LAWS force and effect as though issued after the passage of
R.A. No. 9266.
RA 9266
RA8981 SECTION 27. Reciprocity Requirements
PRC-BOA A person who is not a citizen of the Philippines at the
Resolutions time he/she applies to take the examination shall not be
Civil Code allowed to take the licensure examination unless he/she
RA8293 can prove, in the manner provided by the Rules of Court
that, by specific provision of law, the country of which
THE BUILDING & he/she is a citizen, subject or national either admits
PLANNING LAWS citizens of the Philippines to the practice of the same
profession without restriction or allows them to practice
it after passing an examination on terms of strict and
PD1096
absolute equality with citizens, subjects or nationals of
PD957
the country concerned, including the unconditional
BP344 recognition of prerequisite degrees/diplomas issued by
BP220 the institutions of learning duly recognized for the
purpose by the Government of the Philippines.
 A foreign citizen, whether he studied in the Philippines
or not, who desires to take the licensure examination
for Architects through reciprocity shall initiate the
establishment of reciprocity between his country/state
and the Philippines by presenting/submitting a letter or
THE ARCHITECTS any document signed and under official seal by the
LAWS appropriate official of his country/state requesting
the Chairman of the Board Architecture to allow the
RA 9266 foreign applicant to take the licensure examination of
RA8981 the Board that by express provision of the law of his
PRC-BOA country/state, Filipino citizens shall be allowed to take
Resolutions the licensure examination for Architects and to register
as Architect in his country/state on terms of strict and
Civil Code
absolute equality with the citizens or subjects of said
RA8293
country or state including the unconditional recognition
of prerequisite degrees issued by institutions of higher
THE BUILDING & learning duly recognized or established by the
PLANNING LAWS Government of the Republic of the Philippines
attaching/appending thereto an authentic or
PD1096 authenticated official copy of said law officially
PD957 translated in the English language.
BP344
BP220
 If the letter/document and the copy of the law submitted
by the applicant is satisfactorily to the Board, the
foreign applicant shall be allowed to take the licensure
examination for Architects by requiring him to file an
application to take the licensure examination and by
submitting the following documents that shall
THE ARCHITECTS accompany the application:
LAWS
a. The original or certified copy of any official
RA 9266 document issued by the Bureau of Immigration and
RA8981 Deportation allowing the applicant to enter and
PRC-BOA reside the Philippines;
Resolutions b. Present his passport for examination and for
Civil Code photocopying of pertinent information about the
RA8293 applicant;
c. Original or authenticated copy of transcript of
THE BUILDING &
records or equivalent document of the course for
PLANNING LAWS
licensure examination issued by the institution of
higher learning where he studied, duly authorized or
PD1096 accredited by his country/state; and
PD957
BP344 d. Other documents which may be required to be
BP220 submitted by the Board.
 SECTION 28. Continuing Professional Development
(CPD)
To promote public interest and to safeguard life, health
and property, all practicing architects shall maintain a
program of continuing professional development. The
THE ARCHITECTS integrated and accredited professional organization
LAWS shall have the responsibility of developing a continuing
professional development program for architects. Other
RA 9266 entities or organizations may become CPD providers
RA8981 upon accreditation by the Board.
PRC-BOA A program of Continuing Professional Development
Resolutions (CPD) shall be maintained through an overall CPD
program for architects developed by the United
Civil Code
Architects of the Philippines, Inc. Such a program shall
RA8293
be formulated by the Continuing Professional
Education (CPE) Council for Architects based on the
THE BUILDING & existing guidelines of the Professional Regulation
PLANNING LAWS Commission with levels of compliance and proficiency
evaluation as a rating factor.
PD1096 Accreditation of CPD/CPE providers by the Board of
PD957 Architecture shall be based on the said
BP344 guidelines.
BP220
 SECTION 29. Prohibition in the Practice of Architecture
and Penal Clause
Any person who shall practice or offer to practice
architecture in the Philippines without being
registered/licensed and who are not holders of
temporary or special permits in accordance with the
THE ARCHITECTS provisions of R.A. No. 9266, or any person presenting
LAWS or attempting to use as his/her own the Certificate of
Registration/Professional Identification Card or seal of
RA 9266 another or temporary or special permit, or any person
RA8981 who shall give any false or forged evidence of any kind
PRC-BOA to the Board or to any member thereof in obtaining a
Resolutions Certificate of Registration/Professional Identification
Civil Code Card or temporary or special permit, or any person who
RA8293 shall falsely impersonate any registrant of like or
different name, or any person who shall attempt to use
THE BUILDING & a revoked or suspended Certificate of Registration/
PLANNING LAWS Professional Identification Card or cancelled
special/temporary permit, or any person who shall use
PD1096 in connection with his/her name or otherwise assume,
use or advertise any title or description tending to
PD957
convey the impression that he/she is an architect when
BP344
he/she is not an architect, or any person whether
BP220
 Filipino or foreigner, who knowingly allows the use,
adoption, implementation of plans, designs or
specifications made by any person, firm, partnership
or company not duly licensed to engage in the
practice of architecture, or any person who shall
violate any of the provisions of R.A. No. 9266, its
THE ARCHITECTS
implementing rules and regulations, the Code of
LAWS
Ethical Conduct and Standards of Professional
Practice, or any policy of the Board and the
RA 9266
Commission, shall be guilty of misdemeanor and
RA8981
charged in court by the Commission and shall, upon
PRC-BOA
conviction be sentenced to a fine of not less than
Resolutions
One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) but not
Civil Code
more than Five million pesos (P5,000,000.00) or to
RA8293
suffer imprisonment for a period not less than six (6)
months or not exceeding six (6) years or both, at the
THE BUILDING &
discretion of the Court.
PLANNING LAWS
Government employees and employees of private
firms or persons/entities who are not registered and
PD1096
licensed architects shall not perform architectural
PD957
works in the performance of their official function
BP344
without the direct supervision of a licensed
BP220
 architect. Such activity shall constitute
unauthorized practice of architecture which shall
be penalized in accordance with Section 29 of R.A.
No. 9266.
Any public official who shall order or cause a non-
architect to perform activities which constitute
THE ARCHITECTS practice of architecture shall be administratively
LAWS liable and shall be guilty of misdemeanor and shall
upon conviction be sentenced in accordance with
RA 9266 Section 30 of R.A. No. 9266.
RA8981 Penalties for Violations of Section 7 – sub-
PRC-BOA paragraph (L) by Heads of Government Agencies or
Resolutions Officers of Private Entities/Institutions as per R.A.
Civil Code No. 8981.
RA8293 Any head of a government agency or officer(s) of a
private firm/institution who violates Section 7 – sub-
THE BUILDING & paragraph (L) of R.A. No. 8981 shall be punished by
PLANNING LAWS imprisonment of not less than six (6) months and
one (1) day to not more than six (6) years, or a fine
PD1096 of not less than Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50,000.00)
PD957 to not more than Five Hundred Thousand Pesos
BP344 (P500,000.00) or both at the discretion of the court.
BP220
 SECTION 30. Prohibition in the Practice of Architecture
Any person or entity, whether public or private, Filipino
or foreigner, who/which shall entice, compel, coerce,
require or otherwise force an architect registered and
licensed under R.A. No. 9266 to undertake/perform any
service under the general practice of architecture as
THE ARCHITECTS defined under R.A. No. 9266, without first executing a
LAWS written contract/service agreement, shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction be
RA 9266 sentenced to a fine of not less than Two hundred
RA8981 thousand pesos (P200,000.00) or to suffer
PRC-BOA imprisonment for a period not exceeding six (6) years,
Resolutions or both, at the discretion of the Court.
Civil Code
SECTION 31. Liability of Representatives of Non-
RA8293
Registered Persons
THE BUILDING & It shall be unlawful for any person or firm or
PLANNING LAWS corporation to seek to avoid the provisions of R.A. No.
9266 by having a representative or employee seek
PD1096 architectural work in their behalf, unless and until, such
PD957 persons have duly qualified and duly registered/
BP344 licensed, otherwise, both those represented and the
BP220 representative, the employer and the employee shall be
deemed guilty of violation of R.A. No. 9266.
 Solicitation of architectural work shall be construed as
offering to practice architecture and shall be unlawful
for any non-registered and unlicensed persons to do
so.

SEC. 32. Signing and Sealing of Architectural Plans,

THE ARCHITECTS Specifications, Architectural Permit and Other Contract
LAWS Documents

RA 9266 It shall be unlawful for any architect to sign his/her

name, affix his/her seal, or use any other method of
RA8981
signature on architectural plans, specifications or other
PRC-BOA
contract documents made under another architect’s
Resolutions supervision, unless the same is made in such manner
Civil Code as to clearly indicate the part or parts of such work
RA8293 actually performed by the former, and shall be unlawful
for any person, except the Architect-of record shall be
THE BUILDING & fully responsible for all architectural plans,
PLANNING LAWS specifications, and other documents issued under
his/her seal or authorized signature.
PD1096 The Board shall make all the necessary rules and
PD957 regulations with regards to the signing and sealing of
BP344 drawings, specifications, reports, and other documents.
BP220
 The authorized signature, official seal, PTR, PRC
registration number and the IAPOA membership number
and Official Receipt (O.R.) number of the Architect-of-
record stamped on architectural plans, specifications,
THE ARCHITECTS architectural permit and other related contract
LAWS documents signify his/her assumption of the mandated
fifteen (15) year civil liability under Article 1723 of the
RA 9266 Civil Code. The Architect-of-record should be limited to
RA8981 architectural documents of a project and its liability
does not extend to the professional responsibility nor
PRC-BOA
civil liability of the other signing (sealing) professionals
Resolutions
Including the Architect-in-charge of construction (AICC)
Civil Code and the Consulting Architect (CA) unless these are
RA8293 under his/her direct employ. This rule shall apply to both
architects in government as well as architects employed
THE BUILDING & by private firms.
PLANNING LAWS For architectural documents prepared by architectural
firms, the Board of Architecture Registry Number and
PD1096 the SEC or DTI Registry Numbers should be prominently
PD957 displayed on all architectural documents.
BP344
BP220
 SECTION 33. Ownership of Plans, Specifications and
Other Contract Documents
Drawings and specifications and other contract
documents duly signed, stamped or sealed, as
instruments of service, are the intellectual property and
THE ARCHITECTS documents of the architect, whether the object for
LAWS which they are made is executed or not. It shall be
unlawful for any person to duplicate or to make copies
RA 9266 of said documents for use in the repetition of and for
RA8981 other projects or buildings, whether executed partly or
PRC-BOA in whole, without the written consent of architect or
Resolutions author of said documents.
Civil Code All architects shall incorporate this provision in all
RA8293 contract documents and other instruments of service.
SECTION 34. Non-Registered Person shall not Claim
THE BUILDING & Equivalent Service
PLANNING LAWS
Persons not registered as an architect shall not claim
PD1096 nor represent either services or work as equivalent to
those of a duly qualified registered architect, or that
PD957
they are qualified for any branch or function of
BP344
architectural practice, even though no form of the title
BP220 “Architect” is used.
 SECTION 35. Positions in Government Requiring the
Services of Registered and Licensed Architects

Within three (3) years from the effectivity of R.A. No.

9266, all existing and proposed positions in the local
and national government, whether career, permanent,
THE ARCHITECTS temporary or contractual and primarily requiring the
LAWS services of an architect shall be filled only by registered
and licensed architects. In order to provide a safety net
RA 9266 intended to ensure that the legislative intent shall be
RA8981 fully implemented, the following sub-rules are so
PRC-BOA prescribed:
Resolutions 1. All national and local agencies including
Civil Code Government Owned and Controlled Corporations
RA8293 (GOCC’s) are prohibited to collapse existing plantilla
positions for architects for the purpose of recreating the
THE BUILDING & same to non-architect positions.
PLANNING LAWS
2. All existing plantilla positions in the national and
local government whose job description includes the
PD1096
practice of architecture as defined under R.A. 9266, shall
PD957 be automatically reclassified as Architect positions and
BP344 shall be accorded the salary pertaining to the latter in
BP220 accordance with salary standardization law.
 3. The government architect-of-record shall collect from
the concerned national or local agency including
Government Owned and Controlled Corporations
(GOCC’s) an incentive pay to cover civil liabilities in the
THE ARCHITECTS equivalent amount of 1.5 % of the project cost of every
LAWS project provided it shall not exceed 50% of his annual
salary which shall be paid upon full completion of the
project. The amount intended for the architect who
RA 9266
prepared and signed the drawings and specifications
RA8981 shall be included in the Program of Work.
PRC-BOA
Resolutions SECTION 36. Collection of Professional Fees
Civil Code It shall be unlawful for any unregistered person to
RA8293 collect a fee for architectural services except as an
employee collecting a fee as representative of a
THE BUILDING & Registered Architect.
PLANNING LAWS

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 SECTION 37. Limitation to the Registration of a Firm,
Company, Partnership, Corporation or Association
The practice of architecture is a professional service,
admission to which shall be determined upon the basis
of individual personal qualifications. However, a firm,
THE ARCHITECTS company, partnership, corporation or association may
LAWS be registered or licensed as such for the practice of
architecture under the following conditions:
RA 9266 a) Only Filipino citizens properly registered and
RA8981 licensed as architects under R.A. No. 9266 may, among
PRC-BOA themselves, or together with allied technical
Resolutions professionals, form and obtain registration as a firm,
Civil Code company, partnership, association or corporation for
RA8293 the practice of architecture;
b) Registered and licensed architects shall compose at
THE BUILDING & least seventy-five percent (75%) of the owners,
PLANNING LAWS shareholders, members, incorporators, directors,
executive officers, as the case may be;
PD1096
PD957 c) Individual members of such firm, partnership,
association or corporation shall be responsible for their
BP344
individual and collective acts as an entity and as
BP220
provided by law;
 d) Such firm, partnership, association or corporation
shall be registered with the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the Board.
The Board subject to approval by the Commission shall
issue a certificate of registration to such firm, company,
THE ARCHITECTS partnership, corporation or association upon grant of
LAWS registration.

RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
Civil Code
RA8293

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 SECTION 38. Coverage of Temporary/Special Permits
Foreign nationals who have gained entry in the
Philippines to perform professional services as
architects or consultants in foreign-funded or assisted
projects of the government or employed or engaged by
Filipino or foreign contractors or private firms, shall,
THE ARCHITECTS before assuming the duties, functions and respon-
LAWS sibilities as architects or consultants, secure a special/
temporary permit from the Board subject to approval of
the Commission, to practice his/her profession in
RA 9266
connection with the project to which he/she was
RA8981
commissioned: Provided, That a foreign national or
PRC-BOA
foreign firm, whose name or company name, with the
Resolutions title architect, architectural consultant, design
Civil Code consultant, consultant or designer appears on
RA8293 architectural plans, specifications and other related
construction documents, for securing building permits,
THE BUILDING & licenses and government authority clearances for
PLANNING LAWS actual building project construction in the Philippines
and advertisements and billboards for marketing
PD1096 purposes, shall be deemed practicing architecture in
PD957 the Philippines, whether the contract for professional
BP344 services is consummated in the Philippines or in a
BP220 foreign country. Provided, further, That the following
conditions are satisfied as follows:
 The following procedures for the registration and/or
issuance of temporary/special permits to foreign
architects are hereby prescribed:
1.0 A visa and work permit by appropriate government
agencies shall be required.
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS 2.0 Within thirty (30) calendar days after the
commission/appointment date, the commissioning party
RA 9266 shall be responsible to secure the Temporary/Special
RA8981 Permit from Board subject to approval by the PRC. DOLE
upon compliance with the qualifications required and
PRC-BOA
receipt of a copy of the said Temporary/Special Permit -
Resolutions
shall issue the employment permit.
Civil Code
RA8293 3.0 In the absence of a bilateral agreement, the foreign
national shall submit documentary proof or evidence
THE BUILDING & allowing Filipino architects to practice the profession in
PLANNING LAWS their home country without any limitation.

PD1096 4.0 Technology transfer and/or specialization must be

PD957 identified and substantiated consistent with his
expertise.
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 5.0 A Filipino counterpart shall be the architect-of-record,
with his duties, functions and responsibilities duly
defined in a covering agreement.

6.0 Advertisements and billboards for marketing/

THE ARCHITECTS promotion purposes shall prominently display the name
LAWS of the architect-of-record. Failure to comply shall be
subject to penalties in accordance with the rules
RA 9266 promulgated by PRC.
RA8981
PRC-BOA 7.0 Upon issuance of the temporary/special permit, the
Resolutions foreign national may become member of the United
Civil Code Architects of the Philippines, Inc. subject to the rules
RA8293 and procedures of UAP membership.

THE BUILDING &

PLANNING LAWS

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 SECTION 39. Liability Insurance of a Person or Entity
Allowed to Practice under a Temporary/Special Permit

Foreign nationals, including former Filipinos wanting

to engage in the general practice of
architecture as defined in Section 3 (c) of R.A. No.
THE ARCHITECTS 9266 must secure locally their professional
LAWS liability insurance or malpractice insurance or their
acceptable equivalent in bond form commensurate
RA 9266 with the nature and magnitude of their project
RA8981 involvement and their Page 22 of 24 compensation the
PRC-BOA implementing rules and regulations for such a
Resolutions requirement for practice shall be implemented by the
Civil Code Board in consultation with the integrated and
RA8293 accredited professional organization of architects
within six (6) months from the effectivity of R.A. No.
THE BUILDING & 9266.
PLANNING LAWS

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 RULE V
FINAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 40. Integration of the Architecture Profession

The Architecture profession shall be integrated into one

THE ARCHITECTS
(1) national organization which shall be accredited by
LAWS
the Board, subject to the approval by the Commission,
as the integrated and accredited professional
RA 9266 organization of architects: Provided, however, That such
RA8981 an organization shall be registered with the Securities
PRC-BOA and Exchange Commission, as a non-profit, non-stock
Resolutions corporation to be governed by by-laws providing for a
Civil Code democratic election of its officials.
RA8293 An architect duly registered with the Board shall
automatically become a member of the integrated and
THE BUILDING & accredited professional organization of architects and
PLANNING LAWS shall receive the benefits
and privileges provided for in R.A. 9266 upon payment
PD1096 of the required fees and dues. Membership in the
PD957 integrated and accredited professional organization of
BP344 architects shall not be a bar to membership in other
BP220 associations of architects.
 Pursuant to Board Resolution No. 3, Series of 2004, the
United Architects of the
Philippines, Inc. is the existing integrated and
accredited professional organization of registered
architects, duly accredited by the Board subject to
approval by the Commission and registered
THE ARCHITECTS with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as
LAWS a non-profit, non-stock corporation
governed by Bylaws providing for a democratic election
RA 9266 of its officials .
RA8981 1.a. An architect duly registered with the PRC shall
PRC-BOA automatically become a member of the UAP and shall
Resolutions receive the benefits and privileges provided for and
Civil Code described in its by-laws upon payment of required fees
RA8293 and dues. The UAP shall keep an updated official
registry of its bonafide members indicating membership
THE BUILDING & and annual dues official receipt number.
PLANNING LAWS 1.b. Bona fide members of the UAP practicing the
architectural profession shall be required to provide
PD1096 their official IAPOA membership number and receipt
PD957 number together with their PRC registration number and
BP344 professional tax receipt (PTR) on official documents
BP220 prepared by them for purposes of obtaining
governmental regulatory permits and licenses.
 1.c. The functions, duties and responsibilities of
the UAP as the IAPOA shall be the following:
a) Nominations to the vacancy of positions to the
BOA;
b) Responsibility of preparing a program of CPD;
THE ARCHITECTS
LAWS c) Endorsement of the practice of foreign nationals to
be issued temporary/special permit;
RA 9266 d) Recommendation of compliance with liability
RA8981 insurance under a temporary/special permit;
PRC-BOA
Resolutions e) Monitoring compliance and endorsing to/or filing a
Civil Code complaint with the Board and/or Commission for
RA8293 violation of the R.A. No. 9266, this IRR, Code of
Ethics, Standards of Professional Practice and other
THE BUILDING & policies of the Board and of the Commission and
with other
PLANNING LAWS
agencies for violation of other relevant laws,
regulations and the like; and
PD1096
PD957 f) Some other functions, duties and responsibility as
BP344 may be prescribed by the BOA from time to time.
BP220 WE CAN END THE TOPIC HERE
 SECTION 41. Implementing Rules and Regulations
Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity of R.A. No.
9266, the Board, subject to the approval of the
Commission and in coordination with integrated and
accredited professional organization, shall adopt and
promulgate such rules and regulations, Code of Ethical
Conduct and Standards of Professional Practice, to
THE ARCHITECTS
carry out the provisions of R.A. No. 9266 and which
LAWS shall be effective fifteen (15) days following their
publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) major
RA 9266 daily newspapers of general circulation.
RA8981
PRC-BOA SECTION 42. Appropriations
Resolutions The Chairperson of the Professional Regulation
Civil Code Commission shall immediately include in the
RA8293 Commission’s programs the implementation of R.A. No.
9266, the funding of which shall be included in the
THE BUILDING & annual General Appropriations Act. The amount
PLANNING LAWS necessary to carry out the initial implementation of R.A.
No. 9266 shall be charged against the current year’s
PD1096 appropriations of the Professional Regulation
PD957 Commission. Thereafter, such sums as may be
BP344 necessary for the continued implementation of R.A. No.
BP220 9266 shall be included in the succeeding General
Appropriations Act (GAA).
 SECTION 43. Act Not Affecting Other Professionals
R.A. No. 9266 shall not be construed to affect or prevent
the practice of any other legally recognized profession.
SECTION 44. Enforcement of the Act
It shall be the primary duty of the Commission and the
THE ARCHITECTS Board to effectively enforce the provisions of R.A. No.
LAWS 9266 and this “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”. All
duly constituted law enforcement agencies and officers
of national, provincial, city or municipal government or
RA 9266
of any political subdivision thereof, shall, upon the call
RA8981 or request of the Commission or the Board, render
PRC-BOA assistance in enforcing the provisions of R.A. No. 9266
Resolutions and this “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”, and to
Civil Code prosecute any person violating the provisions of the
RA8293 same. The Secretary of Justice or his duly designated
representative shall act as legal adviser to the
THE BUILDING & Commission and the Board and shall render legal
PLANNING LAWS assistance as may be necessary in carrying out the
provisions of R.A. No. 9266 and this “IRR of the
PD1096 Architecture Act of 2004”. Any person may bring before
PD957 the Commission, Board or the aforementioned officers of
BP344 the law, cases of illegal practice or violations of R.A. No.
BP220 9266 and this “IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”
committed by any person or party.
 SECTION 45. Separability Clause
If, for any reason, any section or provision of the herein
“IRR” or application of such rules and regulations or
provision to any person or circumstances is declared
unconstitutional or invalid, the remainder of this “IRR of
THE ARCHITECTS the Architecture Act of 2004”, or application of such
LAWS provisions to other persons or circumstances, shall not
be affected by such declaration.
RA 9266 SECTION 46. Repealing Clause
RA8981
PRC-BOA Any provisions of the rules, regulations, codes, orders,
Resolutions resolutions, measures, and other policies or parts
Civil Code thereof issued and promulgated pursuant to R.A. No.
RA8293 545 (as amended by R.A. No. 1581), P.D. No. 223 (as
amended), R.A. No. 8981, and other laws which are
inconsistent with this “IRR of the Architecture Act of
THE BUILDING &
2004” are hereby superseded, repealed or amended
PLANNING LAWS accordingly.

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RA 9266
RA8981
PRC-BOA
Resolutions
END OF TOPIC
Civil Code
RA8293 THANK YOU
THE BUILDING &
PLANNING LAWS

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